Three classy new 2019 Pinot Noir from Tapanappa, Tokar Estate & Dalrymple

Always a pleasure to have more drinkable Pinot Noir pass the desk, and these three have all been delicious. I didn’t try them together but would be a fascinating exercise as this trio are very different wines. You want good Pinot, here’s a start. Arguably the Tokar is the most smashable, the Tapanappa most ageworthy. Choose your (Pinot) poison…

Tapanappa Foggy Hill Pinot Noir 2019

Brian Croser’s Fleurieu Peninsula Pinot has evolved quite a bit over its existence, the style reaching for more delicacy every vintage. It doesn’t always get there, but the trade-off is a wine with no shortage of power. It’s easy to overlook the subtlety with this 2019 vintage release too. The nose has a distinct Pinosity complete with a little leaf litter and loads of almost glace red fruit. On first glance I wouldn’t be upset if I called this mod-Grenache in a blind tasting with that red fruit. It’s licoricey too. There’s no confusion when you taste this – Burgundy it isn’t, more like Adelaide Hills-esque this vintage, such is the fullness through the middle. Still classy though, even if it’s not a delicate wine. Has a nice bright and long finish too, and judging on history, it’s only going to get better. Classy wine. Best drinking: now to five years easy. 18/20, 93/100. 13%, $55. Would I buy it? I’d definitely share a bottle.

Tokar Estate Pinot Noir 2019

What a lovely raspberried, light touch Yarra Pinot. Savoury raspberry fruit is king here but the palate is midweight, generous, not overripe and so smashable. It falls away on the finish, but such effortless drinkability. Tumbler wine, but not necessarily simple. Yes. Best drinking: nowish. It’s not getting any better. 18/20, 93/100. 13.5%, $30. Would I buy it? Yes.

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Dalrymple Pinot Noir 2019

Dalrymple’s Pinot has suffered from some variability in the past, but this is a very nice Tassie Pinot. Ripe, smooth yet sappy, It’s big boned, ripe and full tilt (for Tasmania) but it works too. Just lots of everything in a convincing fashion. It’s just a little warm and rushed to finish, but enjoyable all the same. Good. 17.7/20, 92/100. 14%, $38. Would I buy it? I’d share a bottle, probably finish it.