Mac Forbes 2017 EB41 Showdown 3 Red (Yarra Valley)

Renowned Yarra producer Mac Forbes's “EB” bottlings are “experimental batches” of wines that he finds interesting and boundary pushing. This 50-50 blend of Pinot and Nebbiolo may be unusual, but the two work together splendidly. The color of strawberry juice, it's initially highly mineral, like sunbaked clay steaming after a summer rainstorm. Waves of savory mushroomy aromas wash in next, followed by strawberries and violets. The palate is laser-focused, juicy and savory, Pinot's acidity and Nebbiolo's nervous tannins working together beautifully. Drink now and likely until 2029. Christina Pickard