Dr Who has been around for what seems like forever (since1963 in case you were wondering). As a kid I remember seeing it on ABC television and I’ll be honest and say, the storylines never really captured my attention (although, who could forget the Daleks!). At such a young age, it was always The Tardis that had me thinking how a small British Police Box could be so vast inside. It got to the stage, later in life, when I realised that it all had to do with how television worked in those days. Pretty smart for its time don’t you think?
These two wines almost seem like a Tardis as they sit in their respective glasses. They are both a Pinot Noir. That is what you see. However, there is so much more contained within them that can only be experienced once you move closer to each glass and ‘open the door’ to smell and taste them and whatever else they reveal to your senses.
Region: East Coast, Tas Source: Sample thanks kindly to Maclean Bay Wines
2024 Pinot Noir ($43)
The aromas are just plain inviting. Red and black fruits leap out of the glass, with a hint of spice that adds interest. On the palate, it leans just under medium-bodied, but there’s a ripe fruit character that steps in and says, “I’m here!” and I mean that in the best possible way. It gives the wine presence, a bit of swagger even. Dark cherry and berry fruits take the lead, but there’s a slight fresh raspberry/red fruit vibe that keeps things lively. A whisper of spice (just enough to notice) joins the party, and it all finishes smooth, memorable, and seriously satisfying. Everything about this wine says, ‘ENJOY.’ Yep, capital letters included. It’s youthful, vibrant, and approachable, and it’s got drinkability in spades. In a word? Moreish.
2023 Maclean Bay Basket Pressed Pinot Noir ($53)
This one grabbed me straight away, more intense on the nose than the previous wine, and I was instantly excited. Black cherry, dark berry, plum, and a spiciness set me up perfectly for what was to come. Sure, it leans into the darker fruit spectrum on the palate, but it still sits beautifully in that medium-bodied zone, where everything just works. There’s cool-climate spice, a silky texture, fine tannins, and terrific length. It’s all there. Let’s be honest, when something a little ‘extra’ is printed on a label, like “Basket Pressed,” you expect something special. And this wine delivers. Maybe it’s because of the Basket Pressed fruit. Maybe it’s the flow/soul that seems to come with every bottle of Tasmanian Pinot. Either way, it’s delightful.
Words from a Wine Glass 