2021 Dexter Pinot Noir

Todd Dexter is probably best known for his work alongside Brian Stonier at Stonier wines where during his 10 year stint as chief winemaker the brand was propelled into Mornington Peninsula’s most famous label. Todd and his wife Debbie purchased a vineyard site in 1987 where they planted their first 1.6 hectares of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir but it wasn’t until the mid 2000’s that the first wine was released under the Dexter label.

A superb Mornington Peninsula Pinot Noir, powerful and expansive yet also delightfully fresh.

From an excellent vintage, the 2021 Pinot was matured in French oak puncheons (25% new, 15% second use and 60% older) for a period of 9 months. Vibrant red to dark red colour with black shaded edges and a crimson red hue. Perfumed scents of violets, red cherries and strawberries are intermeshed with hints of anise, fresh herbs and light forest floor. Uber delicious and super long, the palate is beautifully detailed with succulent red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits which are both expansive and supple in their feel. Notions of anise, forest floor, subtle game, infusions of fresh herbs and delicate spicy cedar characters elegantly float through the back half. Terrific fruit purity and power combine with polished tannins and a delightful freshness to form a very long and moreish finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Other Reviews....
A lovely pinot that sits comfortably in its light- to mid-weighted palate, filled with juicy cherries, a squeeze of blood orange plus a pleasing savoury overlay. Lots of heady spices and a hint of eucalyptus/native mint. The oak is tucked in nicely, with supple tannins. There's nothing else to do but to pour it. Now.
Drink by 2031.
95 points
Jane Faulkner - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion