Third Reef Pinot Noir 2018

Tasting Notes:

In the glass, the 2018 Rockcliffe Third Reef Pinot Noir presents a deep, ruby red hue that speaks to its intensity. On the nose, you’re greeted with lifted aromas of violets, spice, and plum, which give way to a complex bouquet of Bing cherry, anise, and a touch of chinotto. The palate is rich and juicy, with dark berry flavours that are beautifully balanced by fine tannins and a touch of creamy oak. The long, elegant finish leaves a lasting impression, making this Pinot Noir a truly special wine.

Food Pairing Suggestions:

• Gamey Meats: Perfect for pairing with roasted duck, braised venison, or rich, gamey meats that complement the wine’s depth and complexity.
• Mushroom Risotto: The earthy richness of a mushroom risotto complements the wine’s smooth texture and savoury notes.
• Hearty Stews: Pair with a hearty beef stew for a rich, satisfying meal that enhances the wine’s full body and structure.
• Cheese: Try it with a creamy Brie or a sharp blue cheese to highlight its rich, textured mouthfeel.

Best Serving Temp:

Serve the Rockcliffe Third Reef 2018 Pinot Noir slightly chilled, around 16-18°C, to bring out its elegance and fruit-forward qualities.

• If storing at room temperature (22°C): Chill the bottle for about 20-30 minutes before serving.
• If storing in the fridge (5°C): Remove the bottle 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to warm slightly and reach its ideal temperature.

Technical Terms Explained:

• Silky Tannins: Refers to the smooth, fine texture provided by well-integrated tannins, which add structure to the wine without overpowering its delicate flavours.
• Post-Fermentation Maceration: A process where the wine spends extra time with its skins after fermentation, allowing for deeper colour, flavour, and tannin extraction.
• Malo-lactic Fermentation: A secondary fermentation that softens the wine by converting harsh malic acid into softer lactic acid, contributing to a creamy texture.

Additional Information:

• Grape Variety: Pinot Noir
• Region: Denmark, Western Australia
• Alcohol: 13% by Vol | 7.8 Standard Drinks
• pH: 3.58
• TA: 6.12 g/L
• Closure: Screw Cap
• Vintage: 2018

The 2018 Rockcliffe Third Reef Pinot Noir is a wine of grace and depth, ideal for those who appreciate a complex, fruit-forward Pinot Noir with the elegance and balance that only the Great Southern region can deliver.

Learn More About Rockcliffe Winery

At Rockcliffe Winery, premium quality and sustainability go hand in hand – it’s at the core of everything we do! We source 100% of our energy from renewable solar power, with any excess energy carefully stored in lithium batteries.

But our commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop there. Despite the convenience of having Denmark mains water just 40 metres away, we’ve opted for complete self-sufficiency in water usage. We utilise filtered dam water for irrigation and cleaning purposes, while filtered rainwater – predominantly collected from our roofs – is used to rinse anything that comes into contact with our wine, including pipes and tanks, as well as for drinking water.

Our overarching goal is to operate at the highest environmental standards possible. We’re dedicated to being as sustainable as we can, ensuring that every step of our winemaking process reflects our commitment to both quality and environmental responsibility.

Who Owns Rockcliffe Winery? Steve Hall, After a long and successful career as a Geologist all around the world, Steve stumbled upon the 36 hectare Rockcliffe Vineyard property in 2002 and knew his life was about to take a very different direction. Having visited over one hundred countries and thousands of wineries, Steve could see the potential in Denmark. Over the next 5 years, Steve worked tirelessly to craft Rockcliffe Wines and continued to develop it into what it is today.

There is no dull moment when Steve is around! He has a wealth of stories and anecdotes to share and is known for making people laugh. Steve’s attention to detail and passion for quality shows in everything Rockcliffe produces.

See all wines from the Great Southern Wine Region HERE

Read the latest Rockcliffe Wine Reviews HERE

Discover the Finest Pinot Noir from Western Australia

Pinot Noir offers a unique sensory experience. With its vibrant acidity, smooth tannins, and an array of flavours that range from rich red fruits to earthy undertones, it’s a wine that captivates both connoisseurs and newcomers.

Whether you’re relaxing at home or entertaining guests, Pinot Noir’s versatility makes it an ideal choice for any occasion. Explore our collection now and discover the craftsmanship of Western Australian winemaking.

Elegance in Every Glass

Pinot Noir is typically dry, light- to medium-bodied, with a bright acidity that adds a refreshing zest to every sip. Its silky tannins provide a smooth texture, making Pinot Noir a wine that’s easy to enjoy.

Flavour Profile

Pinot Noir offers a delightful range of flavours that vary depending on the terroir and winemaker’s style. The best Pinot Noirs from Western Australia present a harmonious blend of:

• Red Fruits: Cherry, raspberry, and strawberry are prominent, offering a fresh and vibrant fruitiness.
• Earthy Notes: Hints of mushroom and forest floor provide depth and complexity, especially in aged wines.
• Spice and Oak: Subtle vanilla and warming spices like clove and cinnamon develop from French oak barrel ageing, adding extra layers of flavour.

The Influence of Climate

The climate plays a significant role in shaping the character of Pinot Noir:

• Cooler Climates: In regions like Burgundy in France and Germany, Pinot Noir wines are delicate, light-bodied with higher acidity and lower alcohol content (typically 12-13.5% ABV).
• Warmer Climates: In Western Australia, warmer regions like the Great Southern produce riper, fuller-bodied Pinot Noirs with higher alcohol content (13.5-15% ABV). These wines boast rich, fruity notes and a more noticeable oak influence.

Food Pairings with Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir’s versatility and complex flavour make it an excellent choice for pairing with a range of dishes:

• Roast Turkey: The tangy berry notes of Pinot Noir elevate your meal, much like the way cranberry sauce complements turkey. The wine’s delicate fruity and earthy elements work in harmony with the flavours of the roast.
• Barbecue Pork Ribs: The bright acidity of Pinot Noir is a perfect match for the richness of barbecue pork. A Western Australian Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with juicy, smoky pork ribs.
• Salmon: Pinot Noir’s higher acidity makes it an ideal match for wild-caught salmon. The wine cuts through the richness of the fish, creating a balanced pairing.
• Cheese: Salty cheeses such as Brie and Camembert are perfect with Pinot Noir’s acidity and fruitiness. For a bolder pairing, try a robust Pinot Noir with cheeses like Manchego or goat Gouda, enhanced with dried fruits like strawberries, tart cherries, or cranberries.