Region: Geelong

Variety: Pinot Noir 

What's in the glass: The Sangreal vineyard was planted in 1994, making it their oldest vineyard. It lies on a north- facing slope and the soil composition is bluestone and overlaying limestone, with red ironstone colouring the surface. The vine rows run north-south, receiving full sun exposure throughout the day, resulting in more perfumed, prettier wines. Describe the best smelling Pinot Noir. Describe a wine that reminds you of perfection. It’s too hard. It’s a task that no one can achieve. I feel silly saying this, because if I do try to write it, Nick will call me on the phone and tell me I’m bullshitting. However, the task needs to be fulfilled. Text needs to be assigned to a liquid that creates emotion. This wine smells like Pinot Noir that has stopped me in my tracks. It smells like wine that I recall when people ask me, how good can wine be, or is there a difference between cheap wine and expensive wine. It smells like wine that I dream about, it smells like wine that made me fall in love with wine. Whatever I write is irrelevant, because it’s my experience, my mouth, my tongue, my budget. Flowers, spices, oak, sunshine, love, hardwork, perfume, loss and years of dedication. It smells like the cellar during harvest and the mud on your boots during pruning. It’s a warm kitchen with friends and family and duck roasting in an oven. I can write a standard note about petals and acid and texture, but it doesn’t really tell you what it feels like to drink it. BEN KNIGHT, CRITIC

Farming: Sustainable 

Vegan Friendly: Yes