I haven’t met Anthony Fikkers, but he clearly has mad skillz, delivering refined and delicious Yarra Valley wines for modest dollars. The only question is whether his Rising Chardonnay or Pinot Noir wines are better. Por que no los dos! This Rising Pinot is so good, so friendly, lovely and composed. Ruby red coloured, all strawberry and glace red fruit bright and ripe red flavours. It’s glossy, smooth, not overdone, and a proper generous thing too. Maybe a little drying on the finish, rather than expansive, but that translates into concentrated tastiness. Is it better than the great 2022? Not far off.

THE VERDICT

• Best drinking: nowish. No hurry
• Score (out of 20): 18
• Score (out of 100): 93
• Alcohol %: 13.5
• RRP (in $AUD): 38
• Winery website: https://www.risingwines.com.au/
• Would I buy it?: sure would