Review: Squitchy Lane Peter’s Block Pinot Noir 2019

Today, it’s all about Pinot Noir on Australian Wine and Drinks Review, with three Victorian Pinot releases that I like (and why not, hey?. This Squitchy Lane Peter’s Block Pinot Noir 2019 is a bit of a slow-burner too – something that, even at four, needs more time to come together (and has the stuffing for it).

Sourced from a north-facing block in Gruyere planted in 1982. 10% whole bunches in the ferment, it spends 11 months in 45% new oak. That’s slightly more new oak than you might see in other Yarra Pinot, but it works. The structure has a deadly serious, ‘I’ve been to Burgundy’ punch to it. It smells oh-so-correct sappy raspberry. You can see the oak on the palate – a slight chocolate cedar edge. But a lovely balance and gentleness underneath, with this tart strawberry jam sort of fruit energy to the thing. There’s a rawness to the finish, but that’s also part of the expression of what is a robust style. Interest here.

THE VERDICT

• Best drinking: now is good, next year probably even better
• Score (out of 20): 18
• Score (out of 100): 93
• Alcohol %: 13.5
• RRP (in $AUD): 68
• Winery website: https://www.squitchylane.com.au/
• Would I buy it?: a few glasses