COLDSTREAM HILLS PINOT NOIR 2005

- Yarra Valley, VIC

- $23-$32

- Screwcap

- 13.5%alc

I can remember buying bottles of Coldstream Hills' 2005 Pinot Noir (93pts-Apr'07) in late 2006 for $23 each. In hindsight I can't recall drinking a better $23 bottle of Australian pinot since, so it is with mixed feelings of joy and regret I pull my last bottle from the cellar.

Appearing a dark brick red, this 5 year old pinot noir reveals an almost leathery bouquet of deep, damp earthy soils, sour cherry, cedar and gentle spice. Extravagantly silky, its sumptuous palate delivers layer upon layer of silky flavour, announcing darker notes of complex leather, cherry and earth which end wonderfully smooth and plush. It finishes very long and savoury, revealing a trace of pencil shavings before it just tightens a fraction at the climax.

ü+ Very attractive, sensuous and hedonistic; Coldstream Hills' 2005 Pinot Noir is drinking in peak form right now. Drink now.

93 points

www.coldstreamhills.com