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Pinot Noir
While we continue to expand our collection of Burgundies, more and more new-world winemakers are coming to terms with this challenging variety. Australians have identified Geelong, the Yarra Valley and the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria as suited to premium Pinot Noir. More recently, Tasmania has shot up the ranks. Mount Mary, Farr Rising and Tolpuddle are names to seek out. New Zealand is also producing some compelling, full bodied wines. Look for regions like Martinborough, Marlborough and Central Otago.
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- 95
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2023 Novum Pinot NoirMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkSupple, light and fresh, this is an elegant Marlborough Pinot that finishes long and savoury.
Dark red in colour with black toned edges and a bright red hue. Drifting through the nostrils are a mix of sour to red cherries and winter strawberries infused with a mix of fresh herbs, earthy graphite like notes, stalk and spicy cedar. Supple, light and fresh in its feel across the elegant palate, flavours of red cherry and strawberry meld into a discreet back drop of forest floor, brambly cedar, subtle clove and spice. Seamlessly integrated, fine grained tannins with a long savoury finish that has a polished feel to it.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
Alluring red cherries, fig hearts and lingonberry jam. Fallen autumn leaves and raw cacao beans. A smattering of orange bitters and apple skin. Densely packed, powdery tannins stand tall amongst the freshness of crunchy acidity. There is a pumice stone mineral quality and plenty of length and line. This is only beginning to hit its straps and will cellar well for another few years. Novum are bursting from the gates and taking charge. Drink by 2030.
95 Points
Shanteh Wale – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 95
2022 Novum Pinot NoirMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkDeep dark red core with black shaded edges and a red to dark red hue. Alluring top notes of violet, red to dark cherry, rhubarb and clove are interwoven with brambly forest floor and spicy cedar like scents. Rich yet fresh and elegant across the palate, juicy red to dark cherry, winter strawberry and rhubarb flavours are featured over a dried herb, forest floor, brambly cedar and spice back drop. Fine grained tannins and energetic yet integrated acidity lean into a conclusion that’s long, bright and savoury.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 95
2021 Novum Pinot NoirMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2028-2029)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkDeep dark red colour with black shaded edges and a red to dark red hue. Spicy dark cherry, strawberry and rhubarb scents gently infused with clove are followed by some smoked meat like notes, dried herbs and light earth. Slightly taut in its feel the elegant palate is layered with a savoury flavour profile of red to dark cherries, strawberries, rhubarb, dried herbs, smoky cedar, dried meats and spicy earth. Bright underlying acidity and slightly grainy tannins with a spicy, refined and complex conclusion.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 96
2020 Novum Pinot NoirMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkDark red core with black shaded edges and a red to dark red hue. Intense spicy dark cherry, violet and anise aromas meld into plum, strawberry, stalky cedar and fresh herb notes. Rich dark to black cherry, plum, anise and strawberry flavours carry terrific power across the light to mid weighted palate. Toasty cedar, fresh herb and forest floor characters lie underneath. Good freshness with a fine grained, polished tannin structure. Concludes long, deep, spicy and elegant.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 92
2018 O'Leary Walker Oakbank Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: 4 - 5 Years (2023-2024)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red colour with black tinged edges and bright red hue. Perfumed violet like notes overlay ripe cherry, strawberry and faint anise scents with subtle forest floor and spicy cedar also evident. Light, vibrant palate with juicy ripe cherry and strawberry flavours prevailing over forest floor and traces of spicy cedar. Finishes fresh with bright acidity, slightly dryish tannins and a crunchy medium length red fruit led aftertaste.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5% -
- 86
2017 O:Tu Pinot NoirMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now (2019)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with a light brick red hue. Aromas of ripe dark cherries and strawberries intermix with hints of anise and spicy oak. Light supple palate entry with flavours of ripe red cherries and strawberries turning stalky and herby on the slightly bitter finish. Smooth tannins and modest aftertaste.
Drink now.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 95
2022 Oakridge Vineyard Series Hazeldene Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: StelvinOther Reviews…..
From '98 plantings of MV6 at Gladysdale; 30% whole bunches. Matured in 300L and 500L casks (less than 10% new). Pretty and delicate with its aromas of alpine strawberries, rose petal and spice. More depth than the '21. Impeccably balanced and light on its feet, fine grained and ever so gently chewy tannins round out a wine that's approachable now but will keep.
95 Points
Philip Rich - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion
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- 93
2023 Oakridge Yarra Valley Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.1%Closure: StelvinA nicely fleshed yet elegant Pinot with delicious red fruits.
Red to dark red core with black toned edges and a bright red tinged hue. Fragrant scents of violet, red to dark cherry, strawberry and subtle anise flood the nostrils with some fresh herb and forest floor notes also chiming in. Delicious red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits gently infused with fresh herbs flow across the palate with a supple feel. Delicate anise, forest floor and spice elements ensue. Showing ample freshness it has polished tannins and a finish that’s fleshy yet elegant.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.1% -
- 94
- 95
2021 Oakridge Hazeldene Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 13.2%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Fragrant violet laced aromas of red to dark cherry, strawberry and rhubarb sail out of the glass with plenty of intensity. Brambly cedar, subtle dried clove, forest floor and spice notes ensue. Light and savoury the palate features red to dark cherry and rhubarb flavours over a dried herb, spicy cedar and brambly forest floor like back drop. Relatively supple in its feel it possesses a polished tannin structure and finishes medium to long.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.2%Other Reviews….
From 1998 planting of MV6 at Gladysdale, 30% whole bunches. Matured in 300L and 500L casks (less than 10% new). Awarded Best Pinot Noir at the 2022 Yarra Valley Wine Show. Exhibiting an array of spices including cardamon and nutmeg pods with red fruits and pomegranate, this floral, compact, medium-bodied and structured wine is precise and long. Drink by 2027.
95 Points
Philip Rich – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 92
2022 Oakridge Yarra Valley Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent bright red to dark red colour with black shaded edges and a vibrant light red purple hue. Delightful red cherry and strawberry aromas subtlety infused with violets stream out of the glass followed by some forest floor and spicy cedar notes. Delicious red cherry and strawberry fruits are supplely cast across the light weight palate with infusions of fresh herbs, forest floor and spicy cedar characters ensuing. Very polished tannins finishing with a fresh red fruited aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
- 96
2018 Oakridge Vineyard Series Henk Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2021-2027)ABV: 13.1%Closure: StelvinMatured for 10 months in French oak barrels. Deep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a crimson red hue. Perfumed scents of violets, dark cherries, strawberries and anise engulf the nostrils with notions of forest floor, spicy cedar and fresh herbs also evident. Light and supple in its feel the palate is decorated with delicious dark cherry and strawberry fruits which overlay anise, spicy cedar and delicate fresh herb infusions. Very polished, super fine tannins finishing with ample freshness on the medium to long aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.1%
Other Reviews….
Clones 777 and MV6, the standard Oakridge vinification ever seeking maximum expression of the variety and sense of place. Good colour; the penetration of the wine is a feature deriving from the inherent purity and natural balance of red and black cherry fruit. Wonderful wine. Drink by 2033.
96 points
James Halliday -Australian Wine Companion -
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2016 Oakridge Willowlake Vineyard Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2022-2023)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinFermented with a combination of 90% whole berries and 10% whole bunches with maturation taking place in French oak barrels for a period of 10 months.
Semi translucent bright dark red colour with a light crimson red hue. Perfumed scents of violets, ripe cherries and strawberries intermix with hints of anise, some meatiness and spicy cedar. Light and fresh the palate is generously flavoured with ripe cherries and strawberries which have a supple feel over nuances of meatiness, light anise and spicy cedar. Slightly dryish but otherwise finely grained tannins with a lick of fresh acidity on the finish. Good power wave with a long aftertaste of ripe cherries, strawberries, dried meats, lightly toasted cedar and spice.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
Sapid, cool and tangy red fruit, etched with the sort of fine-grained tannic composure and pulsing acidity, seldom seen outside of Burgundy. The oak sits in there somewhere, perfectly integrated. Like berries bursting through the mouth. The sweetness is detectable, yet never trop. A north-facing site, embedded with a soprano personality. Drink by 2025.
95 points
Ned Goodwin – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 97
- 97
2023 Oakridge Vineyard Series Hazeldene Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2026-2034)ABV: 13.2%Closure: StelvinExpansive, powerful and silky textured, this moreish Yarra Valley Pinot is an absolute steal when compared to it’s Burgundian counterparts.
Matured in French oak barrels for 11 months. Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light crimson red hue. Wonderfully fragrant nose with perfumed scents of violet, red to dark cherry, anise and strawberry leading the way. Traces of rhubarb, bramble, forest floor and dried herbs provide further complexity. Expansive and powerful, moreish red to dark cherry, strawberry, rhubarb and anise flavours glide across the palate with a silken feel. Underlying notions of forest floor, bramble, dried herbs and delicate spicy cedar complete the sophisticated flavour profile. Perfectly integrated, velvet smooth tannins. Combining richness with finesse and a supple feel, it finishes with outstanding length. Trophy for best wine in show at the 2024 Yarra Valley Wine Show.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.2%Other Reviews….
From '98 plantings of MV6 at Gladysdale. The fact that this was The James Halliday Wine of Show at last year's Yarra Valley Wine Show, beating the Hazeldene Chardonnay in the process, says it all. Perfumed and captivating aromas of red fruits, dark rose and a little whole-bunched-derived sous bois. Medium bodied, this silky-textured wine finishes with just the right amount of understated and persistent tannins. Irresistible now and, I'd imagine, over the next six to eight years plus. Drink by 2032.
97 Points
Philip Rich - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 93
2018 Oakridge Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: 4 - 5 Years (2023-2024)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent bright dark red core with a light crimson hue. Fragrant ripe red cherry and strawberry scents gently laced with hints of violets and clove evolve from the glass followed by spicy cedar, forest floor and fresh herb notes. Light in body the palate is decorated with savoury red fruits finishing with a lick of fresh acidity. Subtle forest floor, cedar and spicy herb characters are also apparent. Slightly dryish, fine grained tannins with an elegant medium length conclusion.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 92
2017 Oakridge Vineyard Series Henk Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2024-2025)ABV: 13.7%Closure: Stelvin100% whole berry fermentation with 10 months maturation in French oak. Semi translucent luminous bright red colour with black tinged edges and a vibrant red hue. Perfumed violet like scents intermix with ripe red cherries, strawberries and red raspberries followed by light anise and spicy cedar notes. Light in body the palate has juicy cherry, ripe red raspberry and strawberry flavours which are underpinned by faint forest floor and spicy cedar. Supple mouthfeel velvety tannins and a medium length aftertaste. Quite flavoursome but a touch simplistic.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.7%
Other Reviews….
Tried this at the winery a couple of months ago, and it’s settling into bottle very well. The Henk vineyard is in Woori Yallock.
Red cherry, red fruits, spice, vanilla and flowers. Fresh, pretty style of wine, almost delicate, with sappy red fruits, a smudge of fine grained tannin, balanced acidity, and a bright but savoury finish of good length. Thoroughly charming.
Drink 2018-2027.
93 Points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front -
- 94
2019 Octtava Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2022-2027)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinMatured for 10 months in a mix of old and new French oak barriques. Deep black dark red colour with a dark red hue. The nose features elevated dark to black cherry and anise aromas over toasty cedar, dried herb and spicy earth notes. Rich black cherry, anise and black plum fruits show ample intensity with spicy cedar, scorched earth and dried herb characters in the background. Plenty of volume and power here with fine grained tannins and a long fleshy aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14% - 2014 Olivier Horiot En Barmont Rose des RiceysChampagne, FRANCE$94. 99Bottle$1139.88 DozenABV: 12%Closure: Cork
Located in Les Riceys, the Olivier Horiot domain has belonged to the same family for several generations. The villages that makes up Les Riceys have a tumultuous past (in its long history, it has been defined and redefined as both Burgundy and Champagne) yet Olivier Horiot has succeeded in producing innovative and unusual wines from biodynamic viticulture and natural processes. Furthering its uniqueness, Les Riceys is the only region in Champagne to boast three appellations. One of these is Champagne, of course, but there are also two non-sparkling wine appellations: Côteaux Champenois (red and white) and Rosé des Riceys. The latter is an astonishing and aromatic rosé. Its appeal may be narrow, but the talent of Olivier Horiot has ensured it is perfectly crafted.
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- 93
2018 Olivier Leflaive Cote-de-Beaune VillagesBurgundy, FRANCE$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkDark red in colour with black shaded edges and a red hue. Spicy sour to red cherry scents infused with fresh herbs and violets drift from the glass trailed by some earth and spicy cedar notes. Light to medium weight the palate is nicely endowed with ripe red cherry, strawberry and red currant fruits which meld into a dusty earth, fresh herb and spicy cedar background. Slightly grainy tannins and bright acidity concluding with a savoury red fruited aftertaste.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 96
2018 Onannon Leongatha South Gippsland Single Site Pinot NoirGippsland, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2021-2027)ABV: 13.7%Closure: StelvinMatured for 12 months in oak, 30% of which was new. Semi translucent bright dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Fragrant red cherry, wild strawberry and subtle anise aromas have a light violet overlay with dried herb, forest floor and spicy cedar ensuing. Delicious rich red to dark cherry and wild strawberry fruits cascade across the lightly weighted palate with terrific power melding into dried herb, subtle anise, forest floor and spicy cedar elements along the way. Smooth, supple mouthfeel with a clip of bright underlying acidity lending freshness. Silky tannins finishing with a long expansive aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.7%
Other Reviews…..
Tasting alongside the Red Hill offering, and the Leo, for me, it’s the king of this particular jungle. The glass is cut
The bottle run dry. etc.
Fresh, frisky, strawberry and mint, perfumed too, and a modest amount of smoky earthiness. Limpid and fine, cool feeling, with a stroke of emery tannin, sap and spice, and a lively finish of excellent length. Beautifully made and so pleasing to drink. Touch and go for a higher score. Drink 2020-2026+
94 points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front -
- 96
2018 Onannon Red Hill Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2020-2026)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red core with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. Perfumed nose with uplifted violet scents leading the way. Spicy dark cherry, strawberry and light clove aromas then chime in followed by forest floor, game meats and subtly toasted cedar. A power wave of spicy dark cherry and strawberry fruits supplely roll across the palate. Adding complexity are elements of forest floor, clove, a touch of meatiness and toasty cedar. Polished tannins and bright acidity frame the delectable fruit. Concludes with a deliciously long aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 95
2017 Onannon Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenCellar: 4 - 5 Years (2023-2024)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent bright dark red core with a light red hue. A very fragrant nose leads with violet, ripe red to dark cherry and strawberry scents which are interlaced with forest floor, subtle rhubarb, faint clove and spicy cedar notes. The palate delights with its beautiful supple textural feel, driving red to dark fruits and spicy finish. Complexing elements of forest floor, fresh herb infusions and spicy cedar also chime in. Velvet smooth tannins. Excellent power wave with a long spicy dark cherry, ripe strawberry, forest floor, dried meat, cedar and fresh herb infused tail.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 94
2017 Onannon Leongatha South Gippsland Pinot NoirGippsland, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$56. 99Bottle$683.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2019-2025)ABV: 13.8%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent bright dark red colour with a light crimson red hue. Nosing offers up aromas of dark cherries and ripe strawberries married to anise, hints of clove, forest floor and spicy cedar. Light in body but possessing good power the palate dishes up a savoury flavour profile of delicious dark cherries and strawberries infused with forest floor characters, fresh herbs and spicy lightly toasted cedar. Supple textural feel with velvet smooth tannins, balanced acidity and a long spicy aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.8% -
- 96
- 95
2016 Onannon Mornington Peninsula Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2023-2024)ABV: 13.8%Closure: StelvinThis wine is a blend of three vineyards: the original Red Hill site (23-year-old vines, MV6 and 777 clones), plus a site in Shoreham (19-year-old vines, MV6 clone) and a site in Merricks North (20-year-old, MV6 clone).
Semi translucent dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Very perfumed nose with uplifted scents of violets, red to dark cherries and subtle strawberries prevalent over notes of meaty anise like characters, forest floor and spicy cedar. Light to medium bodied the palate features tremendous richness and power generating mouthfilling flavours of spicy red to dark cherries and strawberries which drive their way through to a long conclusion. Elements of anise, some meatiness, forest floor and cedar all add complexity. Supple yet finishing bright and savoury, very refined tannins show perfect integration. Very long aftertaste of spicy dark cherries, strawberries, subtle anise, meaty characters, forest floor and cedar.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.8%Other Reviews….
From the moment the fragrance of wild strawberries, spiced black cherries and warm earth hits, you'll swoon. This has all the plushness, ripe tannins and structure typical of the region, fuller bodied but far from heavy as it has beautiful composure. Drink by 2026.
95 points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 98
2017 Onannon Single Site Red Hill Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$56. 99Bottle$683.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2019-2025)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinEstablished in 2008, Onannon is a joint venture between Mount Mary winemakers Sam Middleton and Kaspar Hermann as well as the well travelled Will Bryon. The focus is on Mornington Peninsula & Gippsland Pinot Noir with several releases receiving great acclaim. This single site Red Hill Pinot Noir is without a doubt the best yet from this talented trio. Sourced from a Red Hill vineyard with 24 year old vines, that the boys manage, it’s a warm site with a northern exposure. Fifty percent whole clusters were used in the ferment with maturation taking in French oak, 25% new.
Gorgeously rich, supple and exceptionally powerful this is one totally irresistible Pinot.
Deep, slightly cloudy, dark red colour with a light red hue. Incredibly perfumed nose with aromas of violets, ripe cherries, winter strawberries and subtle anise flowing into forest floor, fresh herb and spicy cedar scents. Amazingly intense, exceptionally long, rich and supple this has all the traits of world class Pinot Noir. Delicious ripe cherry, strawberry and a dash of sour cherry flavours glide eloquently across the palate. Underneath the sumptuous layers of fruit are complexing nuances of forest floor, subtle clove, fresh herb infusions and light spicy cedar. Sensational power wave with silky tannins, a lick of bright acidity freshening up the finish. Concludes with a magnificent peacocks tail like aftertaste that seemingly goes on forever. Simply Outstanding.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 89
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2020 Opawa Pinot NoirMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2024-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red core with black toned edges and a red hue. Spicy dark cherry aromas infused with a mix of graphite and dried herbs emerge followed by some rhubarb and earth notes. Light in weight with a tense feel, dark cherry and rhubarb flavours meld into an earthy dried herb and woodsy spice back drop. Dryish finish with chalky tannins and bright acidity creating a tight structure. Concludes somewhat lean.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 92
2018 Opawa Pinot NoirMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2020-2023)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Aromas of dark cherries, dried meats and toasty oak intermingle with hints of anise, forest floor and spice. Light and elegant in body but with good mid palate flesh, spicy dark cherry and subtle anise flavours are overlaid with smoked meats, forest floor and spicy cedar characters. Refined tannins concluding with medium length.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
2018 Ostler Caroline's Pinot NoirNorth Otago, NEW ZEALAND$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2021-2025)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red core with black tinged edges and a light brick red hue. Fragrant dark cherry, subtle violet, dried herb and anise scents overlap earth, stalk and spice notes. Supple on entry the palate is generously flavoured with a mix of dried to dark cherry and anise which morph into dried herb, toasty oak, earth and spicy stalk nuances. Polished tannins with a dryish, ever so slightly bitter finish and a medium length aftertaste.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 95
2016 Ostler Caroline's Pinot NoirOtago, NEW ZEALAND$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2024-2025)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. Elevated aromas of ripe dark cherries, dark plum and anise meld into toasty oak, earth and spicy herb notes. Rich with a fleshy textural feel, the mid weight palate is filled with ripe dark cherry and plum flavours which intermix with anise, toasty oak, subtle earth and spice. Velvet like yet structured tannins. Excellent power wave with a long rich finish.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 93
2015 Ostler Blue House Vines Pinot NoirNorth Otago, NEW ZEALAND$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2019-2021)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red core with a light brick red hue. Lifted aromas of red and dried cherries infused with meaty notes and dried herbs are trailed by hints of stalky cedar and spice. Light, supple and savoury the palate features dried and dark cherry flavours which are interweaved with stalky cedar, dried herbs, forest floor and spice. Silky smooth tannins. Good length with a medium to long finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
- Reduced
2021 Pacha Mama Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $32.99$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 13.4%Closure: StelvinMatured for 10 months in 20% new French oak with the balance in 2-6 year old French oak barriques. Semi translucent red heart with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Pretty violet, red cherry and strawberry scents are delivered with ample intensity followed by some subtle forest floor, fresh herb and spice notes. Lightly weighted, delicious cherry and strawberry fruits decorate the palate carrying a supple feel with them. Delicate forest floor, dried herb and spicy cedar elements are the undercard. Good freshness and polished tannins with a savoury red fruited conclusion.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.4% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Pacha mama Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 12.6%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent red to dark red colour with black shaded edges and a light red hue. Fragrant aromas of violet, red cherry and strawberry are trailed by a whiff of forest floor, fresh herbs and spice. Light in weight the palate is decorated with red cherry and winter strawberry fruits which show plenty of freshness and vibrancy. Lurking underneath are delicate nuances of forest floor and fresh herbs. Polished fine grained tannins with a bright, elegant red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.6%Other Reviews…..
Fruit harvested from the Full Moon Vineyard in the sub-region of Gladysvale in the Upper Yarra Valley, planted twenty years ago to a mix of clones, the wine spent ten months in French oak barriques, 20% new. Pale garnet in colour, this is a most appealing Pinot with notes of smoky undergrowth, dry herbs, animal skins, leather, cherries and an array of red fruits. Fine acidity, early complexity and good balance, the palate exhibits notes of coffee grinds and delicatessen meats. There is room for further improvement, to enjoy over the next half dozen years. Drink 2024-2030.
93 Points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com -
- 90
- Reduced
2021 Palliser Estate Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALANDReduced from $49.99$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinOther Reviews….
Aromas of white pepper, strawberries, cherries and crushed thyme. Medium- to full-bodied with silky tannins. Bright acidity and berry tang with a vanilla cream finish. Drink now. Screw cap.
90 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 94
- 92
2020 Palliser Estate Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red black tinged core with a dark red hue. Expressive dark to black cherry, anise and dark plum scents are followed by some earth, subtlety toasted cedar and spice. Amply weighted the palate is loaded with rich dark to black cherry, dark plum and anise flavours. Toasty cedar and earth characters linger underneath. Spicy finish with polished tannins and a generously fruited conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
Shows lovely precision, with ripe black cherry flavours at the core, plus notes of red licorice, oolong tea and white pepper as well as a touch of fresh earth that lingers.
92 Points
Wine Spectator -
- 94
2017 Palliser Estate Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2021-2026)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinEighteen percent whole clusters were incorporated into the ferment with maturation taking place in French oak (27% new) for a period of 10 months. Semi translucent dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Pronounced spicy dark cherry and strawberry scents drift from the glass complexed by dried herb, forest floor and cedar notes. Savoury red to dark cherry and winter strawberry fruits have a warm comforting feel across the palate with forest floor, dried herb, a touch of meatiness and spicy cedar chiming in on the back half. Refined, well integrated tannins lead into a long, complex and layered finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 92
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Paracombe Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinJuicy cherry and strawberry fruits with plenty of energy and vibrancy.
Semi translucent dark red core with black toned edges and a light red hue. Fragrant violet, red cherry and strawberry aromas blossom from the glass followed by some fresh herb and delicate mint notes. Juicy cherry and strawberry fruits bounce across the palate with plenty of energy and vibrancy. Infusions of fresh herbs, forest floor and spice extend across the back half. Fine grained tannins with a delicious, fresh red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Paracombe Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2024-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinDark red core with black toned edges and a red purple tinged hue. Fragrant red cherry scents infused with a mix of fresh herbs and mint are followed by subtle earth and spice notes. Juicy red cherry, red plum and rhubarb flavours have a fresh bouncy feel across the palate with infusions of Mediterranean herbs, inky earth and spicy lying underneath. Bright acidity and fine grained tannins with an energetic red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 93
2022 Paracombe Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent bright red to dark red colour with black shaded edges and a light red hue. Perfumed scents of violet, red cherries and raspberries blossom out of the glass followed by infusions of fresh herbs and spicy anise like notes. Juicy red to dark cherry and raspberry fruits flood the mouth with some anise and spicy fresh herb characters lying underneath. Supplely textured it has velvet smooth tannins and a vibrant, deliciously fruited finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 92
2022 Paringa Estate Peninsula Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Alluring scents of violets, red to dark cherries and strawberries show ample fragrance out of the glass followed by some anise, forest floor and spicy dried herb notes. Deliciously fresh and juicy, flavours of red cherries and strawberries are served up over a back drop of forest floor, infusions of fresh herbs and spicy cedar. Lively acidity and polished tannins with a savoury finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 96
2018 Paringa Estate ‘Estate’ Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2022-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinDark red in colour with black shaded edges and a dark red hue. Blossoming from the glass is a mix of red to dark cherries and strawberries which meld into anise, forest floor, subtle fresh herb and spicy cedar notes. Delicious ripe red cherry and strawberry fruits carry terrific intensity. Infusions of violets, anise, forest floor and spicy cedar ensue. Fresh, supple feel with polished yet beautifully structured tannins. Excellent power wave with vibrant acidity and a long expansive aftertaste.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 94
2021 Paringa Estate Peninsula Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinFruit for Paringa Estate’s Peninsula Pinot are sourced from their own vineyards in Red Hill, and from a few other carefully selected vineyards around the Peninsula. Fruit was 100% de-stemmed and fermented in 2.5 tonne open fermenters where it spent an average of 21 days on skins. Maturation took place over 11 months on lees in French Oak barrels.
Semi translucent bright red to dark red colour with black shaded edges and a light red hue. Perfumed like aromas of violets, red cherries and winter strawberries fill the nostrils with some subtle anise, forest floor and spicy cedar notes also chiming in. Light in weight but expansive, delicious ripe cherry and strawberry fruits are both fresh and supple in their feel across the palate. Evident on the back half are some spicy anise, fresh herb infusions and light forest floor characters. Silky tannin structure with the long red fruited aftertaste carrying a sense of vibrancy.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
2020 Paringa Estate Peninsula Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2021-2026)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent bright ruby red colour with subtle tinges of black to the edges and a light red hue. Fragrant violet led scents of ripe red cherries and strawberries stream out of the glass with a whiff of anise, subtle forest floor and spicy cedar also chiming in. Light in body with a vibrant yet supple feel, the palate is decorated with ripe red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits which display medium power. Delicate stalky cedar, infusions of fresh herbs and traces of forest floor work their way onto the back half. Finishes with good freshness, polished tannins and a savoury aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
- 93
2019 Paringa Estate Peninsula Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2021-2026)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinFruit for Paringa Estate’s Peninsula Pinot are sourced from their own vineyards in Red Hill, and from a few other carefully selected vineyards around the Peninsula. In 2019, the cooler sites “up hill” developed good acid, and bright red cherry flavours, whereas the Pinots from “down the hill,” had darker fruit, and more savoury tannins. Fruit was 100% de-stemmed and fermented in 2.5 tonne open fermenters where it spent an average of 21 days on skins. Maturation took place over 11 months on lees in French Oak barrels.
Deep dark red core with black shaded edges and a bright red hue. Perfumed aromatics of violets, ripe cherries and plum are trailed by some anise, fresh herb and spice notes. Delicious cherry and plum fruits inundate the mouth, underpinned by subtle anise, light forest floor and spicy fresh herb infusions. Supple mid palate feel with velvety tannins, finishing with a lick of bright acidity. Excellent power wave with a long moreish aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
We're in business here. This set off the value meter straight away. Cherry-plum flavours with licks of spice, a slight toastiness, excellent fruit purity and a decent sling to the finish. Fresh, complex-enough and more. Delicious drinking. Drink by 2025.
93 points
Campbell Mattinson – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 96
2017 Paringa Estate Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2020-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red core with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Powerful aromatics of dark cherries and ripe strawberries tinged with hints of violets soar out of the glass. Ensuing are some anise, lightly toasted cedar, forest floor and spice. Delicious dark cherry, strawberry and anise flavours show terrific intensity and drive across the palate. Supple yet fresh in its feel with nuances of forest floor, dried meats, fresh herbs and spicy cedar in the background. Nicely balanced natural acidity and very polished tannins add class. Superb depth and persistence with a very long savoury conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 96
- 95
2016 Paringa Estate Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2019-2027)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red core with black tinged edges and a bright light red hue. The very perfumed nose features violet laced ripe cherry, strawberry and red plum aromatics over vanillin cedar, incense, anise and spicy fresh herbs. Light to medium weight with a supple feel, fantastic richness and terrific power the palate is flooded with violet infused flavours of cherries and strawberries which meld into anise, vanillin cedar, subtle forest floor characters and spice. Finishes with nice bright acidity, sliky tannins and a long moreish aftertaste.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%
Other Reviews….
Good depth to the colour; shares the distinctive power and drive of all the top-tier Mornington Peninsula pinots from '16 with red and black cherry fruits contesting front place for this wine, spices evident and will increase with time. Drink by 2027.
95 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion -
- 92
2018 Paringa Estate Peninsula Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: 2 - 3 Years (2021-2022)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent bright dark red colour with a vibrant crimson red hue. Intense freshly crushed aromas of ripe cherries, strawberries and plum subtlety overlaid with violets are followed by light anise and fresh garden herb notes. Silky palate entry with juicy ripe berry flavours of cherry, strawberry and plum dominate over anise and spicy fresh herb infusions. Bright finish with velvet smooth tannins and a vibrant juicy aftertaste.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 92
2021 Passing Clouds Pinot NoirMacedon Ranges, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2021-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinBright dark red colour with black shaded edges and a youthful red purple hue. Fragrant violet led scents of freshly crushed cherries, plum and strawberries meld into some subtle earthy anise and fresh herb notes. Juicy and vibrant the palate is layered with inky red to dark cherry, red plum and strawberry fruits which are underscored by some anise and infusions of fresh herbs. Lively acidity with polished tannins and a delicious red fruited aftertaste that’s brimming with a youthful freshness.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 88
2019 Patrick Two-Blocks Pinot NoirMt Gambier, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2022-2024)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinMatured in 20% new and 80% old French oak barriques for 16 months. Deep dark red colour with black shaded edges and a dark red hue. Pretty violet, strawberry and anise aromas are followed by some earth and fragrant herb notes. Light and juicy, strawberry fruits mix with a dash of sour cherries, infusions of fresh herbs and spicy earth. Fine grained tannins with tangy like acidity and a medium length aftertaste.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 90
2015 Paul Conti Pinot NoirPemberton, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now (2018)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red to brick red colour with a light brick red hue. Aromas of stewed cherries and liquorice are overlaid by smoky clove like characters with earth, spice and traces of emerging varnish following on. Soft and supple in the mouth the medium weight palate has flavours of dark cherries overlaid by strong vanillin cedar, earth and spicy dried herbs. Silky smooth tannins. Long aftertaste of spicy ripe cherries, earthy vanillin cedar and dried herbs.
Drink now.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
MV6, hand-picked, 30% whole bunches, wild-fermented, 9 days fermentation include 2 days cold soak, matured in French oak (10% new) for 10 months. Deeply coloured, and (in pinot terms) full-bodied, it is just embarking on what will be a long journey to maturity when it will garner even more points. Drink by 2028.
93 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion
An obsession with a fickle varietal.
Once you experience it, you never forget it. For some wine lovers, Pinot Noir becomes an obsession. While promising one of world's greatest wine experiences, it can also deliver some of the most disappointing. What is it about Pinot that makes it so frustratingly variable? There are known quality factors which offer encouragement to winemakers. Micro-climates have been observed to play an important part in a successful matrix, particularly the diurnal temperature range. Pinot Noir is a little like Riesling, in the sense that it requires warm, but not overly hot days and cool nights to fully develop its maximum flavour potential. Sunshine hours, rainfall, time and rate of precipitation are all important. Countering this is the fact that the same clone will not respond to differences in micro-climate in the same way. Older vines make better wines. Creative and adaptive viticultural management and winemaking are essential. Buy Pinot Noir online. Any questions about our products or shipping? Please feel free to get in touch by calling us directly on 1800 069 295 or by emailing [email protected] and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Browse and buy Pinot Noir online, spend more than $200 and you'll qualify for free delivery to most of Australia.















































