2015 De Bortoli 'Villages' Pinot Noir

Another vintage of this excellent value Pinot Noir from the Yarra Valley. You can see my recent review of the 2013 vintage of this wine here.

There seems to be a bit more fresh raspberry and red fruit aromas than the 2013, perhaps associated with a bit more carbonic maceration  (a great article on this wine making technique is available here from Jamie Goode.). Just a pleasant and accessible Pinot Noir. I would have a hard time thinking of a better Australian Pinot Noir for under $20.

Price:      $17
Source:   Dan Murphy's
Varietal:  Pinot Noir
Tasted:    December 2015
Rating:    94
Website: www.debortoli.com.au

2015 De Bortoli 'La Bohème Act Two' Dry Pinot Rosé‎

A consistently good dry style Rose that is easy to find. I've shared with a few friends, over Indian or Malaysian food, and heard more than once that they didn't think that they liked Rose.

Strawberrys and rosewater aromas . Soft and juicy, with just a touch of acidity to keep it lively. This is a go-to for spice heavy foods. Fresh, fun, and food friendly.

Price:      $19
Source:   Dan Murphy's
Varietal:  Pinot Noir
Tasted:    November 2015
Rating:    92
Website: www.debortoli.com.au

2013 De Bortoli 'Villages' Pinot Noir

I'm often pleasantly surprised by the quality of wine De Bortoli are able to produce, in relatively large quantities and at very smart prices. This is certainly no exception, and a very good Pinot Noir for under $20. Blended from the 'leftovers' of the 6 different estate wines, this wine is naturally fermented with about 20 percent whole bunches.

Dark red berry fruit aromas wrapped with spicy herbal notes from the whole bunch additions. Chalky and finely textured tannins give good form and length to this wine. Just very good Yarra Valley Pinot Noir at a very good price.

Price:      $17
Source:   Dan Murphy's
Varietal:  Pinot Noir
Tasted:    October 2015
Rating:    94
Website: www.debortoli.com.au