# Oakridge Vineyard Series Willowlake Pinot Noir (2022)

- **Producer:** Oakridge Wines
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Victoria, Australia
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.3%
- **Average price:** €24
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** peony, black cherry, red cherry, cloves

## About this wine

The Oakridge Vineyard Series Willowlake Pinot Noir 2022 is a single-vineyard wine from Oakridge Wines, a leading producer in Australia's Yarra Valley. The Willowlake vineyard, situated in Gladysdale on red volcanic soils, is an older site that contributes to the wine's character. The 2022 vintage experienced very low yields, which resulted in wines of high fruit purity. Oakridge Wines is recognized internationally for its single-vineyard expressions, with Chief Winemaker David Bicknell leading the winemaking efforts.

## Interesting facts

- Trophy winner for Best Yarra Valley Pinot at the 2023 Australian Pinot Challenge.
- The Willowlake vineyard is an older site, contributing to the wine's depth.
- Only about 10% new French oak was used in aging.
- 20% whole bunches were included in fermentation.

## Food pairing

The medium body and delicate tannins of this Pinot Noir make it versatile. Its bright acidity can cut through the richness of fatty meats like duck and lamb, while its fruit-forward character complements earthy mushroom dishes and lighter game.

## Wine making process

The Oakridge Vineyard Series Willowlake Pinot Noir 2022 is produced using grapes from the Willowlake vineyard. Approximately 20% whole bunches were incorporated into the fermentation. Following fermentation, the wine underwent maturation in French oak casks, utilizing both 300L and 500L sizes, with less than 10% new oak. The 2022 vintage was marked by very low yields.