Gold Medal, Sydney Royal Wine Show 2024

95 Points “A vivid, fine-boned and tightly wound pinot noir of exceptional length and persistence with vibrant, effusive perfume. Red cherry at the tarter end of the spectrum with twiggy wood notes, some faint eucalyptus, white pepper, mezcal spiciness and a sense of freshness overall. Tannins are lacy, ultra-fine and tighten the wine well. It’s delicate, almost blink and you’ll miss, but the filigree is all here.” Wine Companion, Mike Bennie, Aug 2024

94 Points “Opens with an exotic aroma of vibrant strawberry with slightly savoury nuances, it’s an engaging perfumed bouquet. The palate captures the season beautifully with a mix of sweet supple fruit with a dry savoury nuance supported by fine chalky tannins. It delivers a real burst of fruit intensity with the combination of 25% new oak and 16% whole bunch adding to its structure and mid-palate power.” Winepilot, Ray Jordan

94 Points “Damn, this is a great drink. It’s a shining beacon for how fabulously approachable and delicious Great Southern Pinot Noir can be. Pour this large. Machine harvested with a portion seeing whole bunch fermentation (15%) and another portion seeing barrel fermentation then spending ten months in mix of new and used French oak (25% new). Dark cherries and strawberries light up the stage with an evocative presence. It’s juicy yet there is some generosity for the curious. Tilled earth, char, a smidge of black tea, twigs and a little pine needle add detail. A fabulous length keeps you captivated and seeking more. I could have glass after glass. Big love! Drink to five years+” Qwine Reviews

93 Points “Castle Rock and Rob Diletti may have established a stellar record for their wonderful Rieslings but it would be a mistake to ignore their Pinots. They rank at the very pinnacle of West Aussie Pinot Noir. The vines providing the fruit for this vintage are between eight and thirty seven years of age. A seven day cold soak, barrel fermentation and maturation for ten months in a combination of new and older French oak barriques and puncheons, a quarter of the oak new and 15% of the grapes whole bunches. Cherry red in colour, this exhibits an attractive, youthful and quite sappy nose. Notes of undergrowth, warm earth, fresh beetroot, red fruits and bay leaves. A fine line of vibrant acidity, there is grip here, and serious length. The wine retains intensity for its entire length, finishing with sleek tannins. Still very young, it will provide pleasure for the next five to six years.” Winepilot, Ken Gargett

Learn About Castle Rock Estate

Perched within the breathtaking Porongurup Ranges, Castle Rock Winery is a true treasure, located along Porongurup Road in the Plantagenet Shire, just 40 km north of Albany in Western Australia’s distinguished Great Southern wine region. This locale is renowned for its exceptional terroir, consistently yielding wines of impressive precision, vitality, and character. As a dedicated Western Australian stockist, Partners in Wine WA is proud to offer their exquisite range, showcasing the quality and craftsmanship that Castle Rock is celebrated for.

Castle Rock Winery: A Treasure in the Great Southern

Set at an altitude of 300 metres, the vineyard reaps the benefits of its height, enjoying cooling south-east breezes that extend the growing season. This environment is particularly favourable for ripening sensitive varieties like Pinot Noir and Riesling, allowing them to thrive while preserving their natural acidity. The unique microclimate at Castle Rock promotes optimal grape development, resulting in wines that are both flavourful and refreshing, embodying the essence of their cool-climate roots.

The vineyard’s management practices are exemplary, with a focus on meticulous canopy management that enhances airflow through the vines and reduces reliance on fungicides. Castle Rock is committed to promoting a balanced ecosystem within the vineyard, utilising sustainable practices that encourage biodiversity. By avoiding synthetic pesticides and insecticides, the winery fosters a vibrant environment that supports beneficial insects and wildlife, enhancing the overall health of the vineyard.

Rob Diletti, the talented winemaker and son of founders Angelo and Wendy Diletti, is at the core of Castle Rock Winery. Since the winery’s founding in 1983, it has flourished under the Diletti family’s stewardship. Growing up among the vines has profoundly shaped Rob’s approach to winemaking. His passion for grape-growing and winemaking has earned him respect within the industry, as he crafts wines that authentically reflect their terroir. In addition to his work at Castle Rock, Rob also shares his expertise with several prominent wineries across Western Australia.

The Castle Rock range showcases the very best of what the Great Southern has to offer, featuring outstanding varietals that embody the region’s spirit. Noteworthy wines include their exceptional Pinot Noir and Riesling, both of which have gained acclaim for their expression of terroir and quality. The Pinot Noir, known for its vibrant red fruit flavours and elegant structure, exemplifies the finesse achievable in cooler climates, while the Riesling is celebrated for its lively acidity and aromatic complexity, offering a delightful balance of fruit and minerality.

Check out the latest Ray Jordan wine reviews.