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William Downie Pinot Noir, Gippsland

Before I left Australia (what seems like a lifetime ago) William Downie was leading a small but ever growing group of young wine makers that were determined to show Australian wine in a different light.
Focussing on the character of the chosen region and evolving and exploring (perhaps challenging) the accepted styles and philosophies that have led the way.

The results have been pretty exciting I’d say and I can only think headed in the right direction.

A table had a few bottles of Williams’ Gippsland expression (a region to the east of Melbourne in Victoria Australia) tonight and kindly left me a glass and I thought I would share my thoughts…
As you can see the presentation of the bottle is minimalistic and refined with artwork from Reg Mombassa - famous for his work with Australian surf brand MAMBO.

When I first tested the wine before serving earlier in the evening I must admit that while the nose was impressive the palate came off a little closed and hard. But as I enjoy a closer look now a few hours on a happier story unfolds.

The lovely clear garnet core of the wine almost like dark varnished furniture is a good sign and the a swirl of the glass shows off lovely flavours of plums and berries with hints of spice barley hidden, almost like lifting the lid on the makings of a good crostata filling.

On the palate the essence of cherries, pits and all lead into hints of savoury smoky features. Focused but not overly tart acidity gives spine to a wine that is in an early stage but will grow ever more enjoyable over the next 4-6 years.

I’d love to see it again in 12 months but with tiny amounts shipped to the UK I doubt it will last!

www.williamdownie.com.au

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