“Just what the doctor ordered.” - Australian Wine Companion, 97 points

There is no shortage of characters in the world of wine and Timo Mayer is another colourful addition. He was born in Germany, where he still makes wine during Australia’s winter, but relocated to the Yarra Valley with his wife to pursue their viticultural dream. He owns a 6-acre plot called ‘Bloody Hill’ (so named because it’s so steep and hard to farm) and works with minimal interference in the winery and no fining or filtration. It's often said that wines reflect the character of the people who make them. This Pinot Noir is elegant, restrained and subtle and, as such, couldn't be less like the wild-bearded, gregarious and convivial Timo Mayer.

The ‘Doktor’ Pinot Noir comes from the warmest part of the aforementioned ‘Bloody Hill’ and undergoes a 100% whole-bunch fermentation before ageing in 1/3 new oak for about a year. Beautifully harmonious in its aromas and flavours with aromatic bark and violet top notes that weave their way through pure Pinot Noir flavours of cherry, redcurrant and raspberry, backed by the finest, chalkiest tannins. Sappy, jewel-bright and vibrant now, but with ages ahead of it. 13% alc. Drink now-2045.

Australian Wine Companion: “Estate grown, 100% whole bunches, matured in seasoned hogsheads. Aromas of dark cherries, boysenberries, star anise, black tea leaves and last night's campfire at dawn. Medium to full bodied, this is savoury and rich on the palate. You barely notice the whole bunches. A cerebral wine that will need the best part of a decade to reach its apogee. Just what the doctor ordered.” 97 points