Bubb & Pooley Pinot Noir / 2024 / 375mL

Description:

The Bubb + Pooley Pinot Noir 2024 from the Coal River Valley in Tasmania is a bright, fine-boned pinot built on red fruit and perfume rather than density, here in a 375mL half bottle. Fermented in concrete rather than oak, it shows the fruit and the site with very little in the way of winemaking varnish.

Aromas run to morello cherry, raspberry and a twist of dried rose, with a savoury undercurrent of forest floor and crushed herb. The palate follows the same line: sappy red berries, a hint of blood orange, and a faintly earthy edge that keeps things from tasting sweet.

Tannins are fine and powdery, the acidity brisk and typical of cool Tasmanian pinot, and the finish is long and clean with a gentle savoury pull. Texture is silky rather than plush, which is exactly what the Coal River does well.

A half bottle is the right size for a solo dinner or for two people who fancy a glass each without opening a full 750mL. Pour it with roast duck, mushroom risotto, glazed pork belly or a plate of charcuterie, and give it a light chill on a warm evening.

Drinking beautifully now and through to about 2029. Bear in mind that a 375mL matures faster than the same wine in a full bottle, so this one will hit its stride earlier — no reason to wait.