Cobaw Ridge High Density Pinot Noir 2023
Region: Macedon Ranges, Victoria, Australia
Grape: Pinot Noir
Vineyard Practice: Organic, Biodynamic
Culinary Suggestions: Duck Confit, Mushroom Risotto, Charcuterie, Quail
Alcohol: 12.2%
Bottle Size: 750ml
The 2023 High Density Pinot Noir from Cobaw Ridge is a concentrated, finely layered expression of Macedon Ranges Pinot Noir, showing intense dark fruit, subtle spice, and a structured minerality. This biodynamic wine captures the balance of power and finesse characteristic of high-density plantings.
Overview
Honest, authentic and passionate are words that we use to describe the wineries we work with and without a doubt, Cobaw Ridge fits this mould perfectly. The winery was established in 1985 by Alan and Nelly Cooper. Vines were planted on granitic, sandy soil in the cool climate Macedon Ranges, on the cusp of the Great Dividing Range at some 610m. Their positioning, in a natural amphitheatre, provides the perfect place to produce terroir-driven wines. 100% estate grown, they are now fully certified organic and biodynamic, something they are very proud of, and deservedly so.
Cobaw Ridge’s High Density Pinot Noir is crafted from the densely planted 2011 vineyard, set against the Macedon Ranges' cool climate and high elevation. Alan and Nelly Cooper, pioneers of biodynamic viticulture in the region, created this high-density block with around 7,000 vines per hectare, introducing a blend of Pinot Noir clones, including 777, Pomard, and MV6, which contribute to the wine’s complexity and depth.
The 2023 vintage was vinified with a hands-off approach, including partial whole-bunch fermentation, and aged in French oak (30% new). Known for its aromatic profile of dark berries, forest floor, and a refined earthy quality, the wine’s minerality and taut structure reflect both its granitic soils and meticulous vineyard management. Critics describe this release as having “compelling” depth, with layers of fruit, spice, and a delicate interplay between tannin and acidity, making it well-suited for ageing.
Cork Tasting Notes
The 2023 High Density Pinot Noir opens with aromas of ripe black cherry, wild herbs, and subtle earthiness. The palate is marked by dark fruit flavours like blackberry and plum, with hints of savoury spice, while fine-grained tannins and bright acidity provide an elegant, enduring finish. This wine is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a structured and expressive biodynamic Pinot Noir from one of Australia’s unique vineyard sites.
Critic Reviews
95 points
Mike Bennie, The Wine Front September 2024
It’s a wine on the edge, and for personal preferences, that’s mostly where I want my wine to be. It keeps you alert, it keeps you seeking out more information. This wine is imbued with fine, elegant pinosity and shows off refined tannin profile and a sense of complexing minerality. The rub is that its a marginal site, a cool place that delivers a nervous freshness at times, and with that mint, Aussie bush/alpine elements that could irk some who approach this wine. I bet most who do know what they’re in for, know the quality potential inherent, and look for the distinct personality even in the more edgier years. Amongst all this, dark cherry, pitch perfect in freshness and bite, some sweet spice too. Just shy of medium weight. Very compelling.
Drink 2024 - 2035