Vintages New Release Collection – April 26, 2025

A foggy morning in a Victoria vineyard.

PACHA MAMA PINOT NOIR 2023 Yarra Valley, Victoria From a single vineyard in Gruyere; 100% destemmed and matured in French oak (20% new). A medium, bright cherry red. A little closed at first before a few good swirls reveal ripe strawberry and raspberry fruit, some spice and a little earth. The medium-bodied palate is fleshy, with pliant tannins and bright acidity keeping it all nicely balanced. Good now and over the next three to five years at least. Drink from: 2024. Drink by: 2029. Score: 93 (Philip Rich, winecompanion.com.au, Oct. 4, 2024) Medium-bodied & Fruity 42083 (XD) 750 mL $36.95 2 New at Vintages Deep, dense red color with a nearly opaque core; elevated aromas include savory dark red fruit and spicy cracked pepper. The palate is full-bodied, well structured, layered, nuanced, and long, developing tremendously with aeration. Cellar over the next five years. Score: 95 (Bob Paulinski, MW, tastingpanelmag.com, July/Aug. 2024) Full-bodied & Smooth 243592 (XD) 750 mL $34.95 2 FOWLES LADIES WHO SHOOT THEIR LUNCH WILD FERMENT SHIRAZ 2020 Victoria

Indeed, the best Victorian wines have the balance and finesse to evolve favourably in the cellar for years and the versatility to pair with nearly anything at the dinner table, which is appropriate given that the region’s capital, Melbourne, is famous for its diverse, dynamic foodie scene. Owing to its cool climate and complex soils, Victoria can produce some of the finest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the southern hemisphere, with the very best examples reminiscent of the wines of Burgundy. The region’s Shiraz tends to be more focused and structured than most of its counterparts from elsewhere in continental Australia, drawing comparisons to the wines of South Africa or the Northern Rhône.

18 VINTAGES