Bindi is one of the great pinot noir producers of Australia and has for some time cemented itself as the greatest of the Macedon Ranges wineries. In more recent times Michael Dhillion has expanded beyond the home vineyard, sourcing quality fruit from nearby sites and Southern Heathcote to build out quality wines under the 'Dhillion' and 'Pyrette' labels.
"The Bindi farm spans 170ha but only 7ha is planted to vines. This simple fact is an insight into the care and respect the Dhillon family has for its land, its heritage and its future. There are only 2 varieties planted (pinot noir and chardonnay) on the home vineyard, both long-established for their stellar quality. Bindi is without question among a select few at the top echelon of Australian wine and essentially has been ever since its '88 plantings first hit their straps. While quality is the uniting factor across the entire range, Block 5 pinot noir remains the resounding jewel in Bindi's crown. Of genuine excitement is the addition of high-density pinot noir (11,300 vines/ha, planted in ’14 and ’16), which is destined to add yet more lustre." Halliday Wine Companion
The fruit is sourced, as usual, from the Colbinabbin vineyard (starting in 2001) and the Col
Mountain vineyard (starting in 2014). It is made in a similar way to the Pinot Noirs, with the exception of seeing around 20% whole bunch inclusion in the fermentations (rather than zero or close to zero for the Pinots). The 2023 is very fragrant with violet, dark plum, sweet earth and chocolate aromas. The palate is exceptionally smooth and supple with silky tannins. It is a medium weight wine with excellent length. These wines certainly improve with eight years cellaring and drink for many years after that but can also be enjoyed for their medium weight and harmony right now.
"An exuberant, dark red-purple; a powerful wine with charry oak dominating in this youthful stage, but underneath, a core of dark fruit spiced to the max, infused with cedar and a more exotic sandalwood note. Full bodied, with ripe, powerful tannins and some charcuterie-like reduction, appealing but clips the finish. Give this more time in the cellar to amalgamate." 91pts | Jane Faulkner | Halliday Wine Companion