This DJV is Andrew Thomas' tribute to the famed Hunter River Burgundy. Forever a Semillon and Shiraz specialist, it seems age has softened him and he is now open to a little change - this is the first time Pinot Noir has appeared in his range. Vibrant, pretty and damn delicious, run to this.
The DJV has normally been a blend of Shiraz with a shot of Semillon verjuice for lift and vibrancy. For a little something different, the 2023 release is a blend of Shiraz and Pinot Noir (56/44).
The Pinot Noir was sourced from the Hunter's Dream vineyard on Deasy's Road, just around the corner from the Thomas Wines cellar door on Hermitage Road. Two ferments of Pinot Noir ticked away - one with 40% whole bunches and one with 100% destemmed fruit before both were blended back into older French oak.
Intentially vibrant and crunchy, bright cherries and strawberries soar on eagle's wings. Juicy and dangerously approachable, it sits fractionally on the lesser side of medium-bodied. That Hunter earthiness is never far away with the hum of delicately tuned fine spices driving to a long and immensely satisfying finish. Tuck in now to embrace the freshness.
Drink to five years.
94/100
Region: Hunter Valley
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