Ten Minutes by Tractor 10X Pinot Noir (Case of 6 x 75 cl)

Ten Minutes by Tractor needs little introduction, nor does the man in charge - Martin Spedding. A gently-spoken man with a background in finance and IT, in 2002 he finally acknowledged the fact that his true passion lay in wine. Despite his origins in New South Wales, he simply couldn't get enough of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and would travel down to Victoria to immerse himself in Australia's heartland of these noble varieties. In 2003 he visited one of his favourite small wineries on Mornington Peninsula, and was delighted to discover that it was for sale. Without a moment's hesitation, he snapped it up, and so began Martin's journey with Ten Minutes by Tractor. And what a journey it has been! Along with a trusty team and his loving family, he has overseen the rise of the estate to the cult status it holds today. In 2016 Sandro Mosele (ex-Kooyong and Port Philip Estates) joined the team as head winemaker, only adding to their "force to be reckoned with" status. This is a Pinot that punches above its weight. Surprisingly restrained and elegant for what was a warm ripening season. A rather breezy and juicy style for the 10X Pinot this year, if with an autumnal edge. There's red raspberry fruit and cherry liqueur, underpinned by hints of mint and undergrowth. Compared to some vintages this is a less forceful style, the sour plum fruit rather more direct and affable, the tannins light and the leaning toward immediate drinking. This feels like a springtime wine; something to enjoy when the sun comes out again.