Mac Forbes Gladysdale Village Pinot Noir 2023 from the southern Yarra Valley is a light, bright ruby beauty, wildly aromatic and effortlessly drinkable, showing just how seductive this cooler, forest‑rimmed sub‑region can be for Pinot. This 2023 Mac Forbes Gladysdale Village Pinot Noir is all about perfume, crunch and sheer moreish charm in the glass.

On the nose it bursts with bright red fruits, brambly berries and a seductive touch of floral talc, layered with lifted spice and whole‑bunch‑derived crushed‑flower notes. The palate opens with crunchy fresh cherry, then flows into a tense, sinewy core of goji berry and raspberry leaf, carried by delicate, silty tannins that add depth without weight.

This is spot‑on with roast duck, charcuterie, crispy‑skin chicken or a simple mushroom and thyme tart, where that crunchy red‑fruit profile really sings. It will also shine with confit salmon, beetroot salad, grilled trout or soft to semi‑hard cheeses, making it a ridiculously versatile, food‑friendly Pinot that begs to be opened any night of the week.