Pale ruby color; cherry, strawberry, raspberry on the nose; black cherry, raspberry, strawberry, plum, blood orange, light oak, spice on the palate.
Dry; soft, plush tannins; balancing acidity (3.63 pH). Light body; tangy; smooth texture. Does not flaunt depth and complexity, but is superb value at its price point. Simple, enjoyable experience; varietally correct offering. Made with 100% pinot noir grapes, which sets it apart from similar-priced pinots that can include up to the allowed 25% of other grapes to stretch out the production. Not heavy or oaky, which is the charming way pinot noir should be. 13% ABV
The name “Yering” comes from Australia’s First Nations People. The Scottish-born Ryrie brothers planted the first vines in Victoria—the southeast Australia state, principal city Melbourne—in 1838. The brothers acquired 43,000 acres and planted two varieties, black cluster and sweet water. They also ran a cattle ranch on the property.
The brothers sold to Paul de Castella, a Swiss-French immigrant in 1850. He increased the vineyard acres, including some vines obtained from Château Lafite. They built the “old winery” in 1859. It survives today as part of the winery. The winery notes: “In the mid 1800s, other Yering Station signatures were established that still remarkably denote the brand today; from the grand avenue of Elm trees to the historic Heritage Barn. Each symbol shines as a testament of our centuries-long journey. The Rathbone family continue to passionately look to Yering Station’s heritage to inform its future, working tirelessly to preserve these precious artefacts.”
The winery changed hands several times in the 20th century. The Rathbone family purchased it in 1996 and owns it today. Darren Rathbone is the CEO and winemaker. He notes that from the first day of ownership their goal was a simple, pure vision of making great wine. The vision also includes a signature restaurant and the “Cellar Door” tasting room in the 1859 “old winery” building.
Yering Station Little Yering Pinot Noir 2021 is Yering’s introductory bottling sourced from younger vines. Simple and somewhat one-dimensional, but delivers excellent value at its price point. Classic red fruits with a touch of tang, smooth and inviting in the mouth, very approachable. Made by the first winery in Victoria—1838—so they have had plenty of practice… and it shows. Pair with poultry, including turkey and duck; lighter beef dishes; veal; lamb; venison; salmon and other seafood; freshwater fish. Cheese—fresh cheeses, mixed milk cheeses, soft goat cheeses; burrata, mozzarella, feta, mascarpone, rocchetta. $18-22
