2021 By Farr Pinot Noir Irrewarra

Gary Farr has been active as a winemaker in the Moorabol Valley near Bannockburn, about an hour's drive from Melbourne, since 1978. Before starting his own estate, he traveled the world to learn the trade from some of the biggest names in the wine world. At Domaine Dujac in Burgundy, Cristom in Oregon, and Calera in California, he was deeply impressed by the finesse and complexity of Pinot Noir. He brought that passion back to Australia—not without difficulty.

The result is By Farr , a family business that is currently led by son Nick Farr . Gary still keeps a watchful eye, but Nick has taken the wines to a new level. By Farr's vineyards cover approximately 130 hectares , of which 36 hectares are planted with vines. In addition to Pinot Noir, premium Chardonnay , Shiraz , and Viognier are also grown here.

Climate and terroir in Victoria

The state of Victoria , in southeastern Australia, is one of the coolest wine regions in the country. The influence of the ocean ensures mild temperatures and large differences between day and night. In addition, the altitude, location, and exposure of the vineyards play a major role in the character of the wines.

Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are the two specialties here. They are produced in a variety of styles – from light and refined to powerful and structured – but always with a clear emphasis on pure fruit and elegance . The Irrewarra vineyards are located slightly further west, in an even cooler microclimate, giving the wines extra tension and freshness.

The style of Irrewarra Pinot Noir

The Irrewarra Pinot Noir 2021 is a textbook example of modern Australian cool-climate Pinot Noir. The wine opens with delicate aromas of red fruit , such as cherries, raspberries, and rose petals, complemented by subtle earthy notes and a hint of spiciness.

On the palate, it is medium-bodied , with lively acidity and silky tannins that elegantly support the wine. The taste is refined, layered, and perfectly balanced between ripe fruit and freshness. The finish is long, softly spicy, and reminiscent of top Burgundy wines, but with a distinct Australian character.

Vinification and aging

The grapes for this Pinot Noir are carefully harvested by hand and fermented with a portion of whole clusters to impart extra structure and complexity. Aging takes place in French oak barrels , a small proportion of which are new, to subtly support the wine without overpowering the fruit.

The result is a wine with depth and tension, which is already delicious to drink but will also reward a few years of cellar aging.

Tasting note

In the glass, the Irrewarra Pinot Noir 2021 displays a bright ruby red color . The bouquet is complex and expressive with notes of ripe cherries, raspberries, roses, and a hint of vanilla and spices. The taste is refined, with an elegant structure, fresh acidity, and a long, refined finish.

Serving and food pairing advice

Serve the wine slightly chilled (around 15–16°C) to best appreciate its finesse. This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with dishes such as grilled quail, duck, mushroom risotto , or rack of lamb with rosemary . It also comes into its own perfectly with soft cheeses like Brie or Reblochon.