Pyramid Valley Angel Flower Pinot Noir 2023

Biodynamic. Angel Flower is a cooler, more exposed block than Earth Smoke. The shallow soils and north-facing aspect here result in a more floral and aromatic wine, although the weight and shape of the palate have much in common with Pyramid’s other single-site Pinot. Following Mike Weersing’s vineyard blueprints, the new team recently planted a little Chardonnay on these soils, recognising its potential also as a great white wine terroir.

Angel flower is the prettiest of many synonyms for yarrow, a grassland and pasture plant with delicate, fennel-like leaves and a brilliant mass of white flowers. Yarrow is the basis of the biodynamic preparation 502, and is strongly associated with mobilising natural sulphur and potassium in the soil. The winemaking for both wines is almost identical: picked by hand and partially crushed by foot, the wine fermented with its vineyard yeasts and was primarily raised in old French oak (just 10% new). It was bottled unfined and unfiltered.

On release, Weersing wrote, “One could hardly ask for a more invigorating, seductive, and briskly legitimate example of this wine.” Today, the ’16 Angel Flower is in its sweet spot. The aromas are alluring and wide open, laden with spices and secondary complexity. At the same time, the texture has resolved to velvety smoothness, carried by still-vibrant acidity—you can feel the freshness of this site. We love how the developing balsamic, hoisin and Asian spice notes cascade around the wine’s savoury elements and seam of fresh red fruit. It’s poised and elegant, and it is drinking beautifully.