Availability:
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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- 89
2020 Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay Pommard Les RiottesBurgundy, FRANCE$199. 00Bottle$2388.00 DozenABV: 15%Closure: CorkOnce known only to a dedicated group of Burgundy devotees due to their reputation selling much of the production to noted perfectionists Dominique Laurent and Lalou Bize-Leroy, Domaine Thierry Glantenay now enjoys no such anonymity. Formally trained as an engineer, Thierry brings those methodical and exacting skills to his winemaking, crafting ethereal Volnay and powerful Pommard that display fantastic transparency of each specific terroir. Blessed with small parcels in the best vineyards of Volnay and Pommard, Thierry has set about a gradual process of refining and perfecting how his vines are managed, and guiding the wines through vinification with a delicate touch.
Other Reviews....
Aromas of raspberries and cherries mingled with hints of forest floor and raw cocoa introduce the 2020 Pommard Les Riottes, a medium to full-bodied, lively and concentrated wine that concludes with a long, mineral finish. The vines in this site are suffering, yielding only a single barrel this year.
89-91 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Jan 2022) -
- 92
2020 Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay Pommard Les Saussilles Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$299. 00Bottle$3588.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkOnce known only to a dedicated group of Burgundy devotees due to their reputation selling much of the production to noted perfectionists Dominique Laurent and Lalou Bize-Leroy, Domaine Thierry Glantenay now enjoys no such anonymity. Formally trained as an engineer, Thierry brings those methodical and exacting skills to his winemaking, crafting ethereal Volnay and powerful Pommard that display fantastic transparency of each specific terroir. Blessed with small parcels in the best vineyards of Volnay and Pommard, Thierry has set about a gradual process of refining and perfecting how his vines are managed, and guiding the wines through vinification with a delicate touch.
Other Reviews....
The 2020 Pommard 1er Cru Les Saussilles is another notable success. Exhibiting aromas of sweet red berries, warm spices, forest floor and woodsmoke, it's medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated, with lively acids and a long, saline finish.
92-94+ points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Jan 2022) -
- 93
2020 Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay Pommard Les Rugiens Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$399. 00Bottle$4788.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkOnce known only to a dedicated group of Burgundy devotees due to their reputation selling much of the production to noted perfectionists Dominique Laurent and Lalou Bize-Leroy, Domaine Thierry Glantenay now enjoys no such anonymity. Formally trained as an engineer, Thierry brings those methodical and exacting skills to his winemaking, crafting ethereal Volnay and powerful Pommard that display fantastic transparency of each specific terroir. Blessed with small parcels in the best vineyards of Volnay and Pommard, Thierry has set about a gradual process of refining and perfecting how his vines are managed, and guiding the wines through vinification with a delicate touch.
Other Reviews....
Another real success is the 2020 Pommard 1er Cru Les Rugiens. Exhibiting aromas of dark berries, cherries, plums, exotic spices and peonies. It's full-bodied, layered and concentrated, with a multidimensional core of fruit, lively acids and fine, powdery tannins, concluding with a long, perfumed finish.
93-95 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Jan 2022) -
- 92
- 92
2019 Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay Pommard Les Rugiens Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$320. 00Bottle$3840.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkOnce known only to a dedicated group of Burgundy devotees due to their reputation selling much of the production to noted perfectionists Dominique Laurent and Lalou Bize-Leroy, Domaine Thierry Glantenay now enjoys no such anonymity. Formally trained as an engineer, Thierry brings those methodical and exacting skills to his winemaking, crafting ethereal Volnay and powerful Pommard that display fantastic transparency of each specific terroir. Blessed with small parcels in the best vineyards of Volnay and Pommard, Thierry has set about a gradual process of refining and perfecting how his vines are managed, and guiding the wines through vinification with a delicate touch.
Other Reviews....
There are two barrels of the 2019 Pommard 1er Cru Les Rugiens, and Glantenay opted to destem the fruit from the bottom of the vineyard—which touches Rugiens Bas—while retaining some 30% whole bunches from the higher part. Unwinding in the glass with notes of peonies, wild berries, orange rind and spices, it's medium to full-bodied, layered and elegantly muscular, with bright acids and powdery tannins.
92-94+ points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Jan 2021)The 2019 Pommard Les Rugiens 1er Cru, matured with one-third whole bunches, has a very expressive and delineated bouquet with wet limestone and light marine aromas infusing the perfumed red berry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannins, borrowing the mineralité from the Volnay Caillerets - its sibling in stylistic sense. Superb tension here, this is another great success from Glantenay in 2019. Drink 2022 - 2042.
92-94 points
Neal Martin - Vinous -
- 89
- 89
2019 Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay Pommard Les RiottesBurgundy, FRANCE$150. 00Bottle$1800.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkOnce known only to a dedicated group of Burgundy devotees due to their reputation selling much of the production to noted perfectionists Dominique Laurent and Lalou Bize Leroy, Domaine Thierry Glantenay now enjoys no such anonymity. Formally trained as an engineer, Thierry brings those methodical and exacting skills to his winemaking, crafting ethereal Volnay and powerful Pommard that display fantastic transparency of each specific terroir. Blessed with small parcels in the best vineyards of Volnay and Pommard, Thierry has set about a gradual process of refining and perfecting how his vines are managed, and guiding the wines through vinification with a delicate touch.
Other Reviews....
Less developed than its Volnay sibling due to a late malolactic fermentation, the 2019 Pommard Les Riottes mingles notes of plums and berries with hints of smoke and orange rind. Medium to full-bodied, deep and elegantly muscular, there's more heft and substance here than in the corresponding Volnay, without any loss of refinement.
89-91+ points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Jan 2021)The only cuvée to be taken from vat instead of barrel, the 2019 Pommard Les Riottes has a potent bouquet with black cherries and blueberry fruit laced with iris and violets. The palate is medium-bodied with crunchy black fruit with a hint of cassis. Nicely balanced with a touch more cohesion that Glantenay’s Volnay, I envisage this aging nicely. Drink 2022 - 2035.
89-91 points
Neal Martin - Vinous -
- 91
- 92
2019 Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay Volnay Les Caillerets Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$320. 00Bottle$3840.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkOnce known only to a dedicated group of Burgundy devotees due to their reputation selling much of the production to noted perfectionists Dominique Laurent and Lalou Bize Leroy, Domaine Thierry Glantenay now enjoys no such anonymity. Formally trained as an engineer, Thierry brings those methodical and exacting skills to his winemaking, crafting ethereal Volnay and powerful Pommard that display fantastic transparency of each specific terroir. Blessed with small parcels in the best vineyards of Volnay and Pommard, Thierry has set about a gradual process of refining and perfecting how his vines are managed, and guiding the wines through vinification with a delicate touch.
Other Reviews....
There's only one barrel of the 2019 Volnay 1er Cru Les Caillerets, but it's one of the high points of the range, soaring from the glass with notes of peonies, orange rind, wild berries and raw cocoa. Medium to full-bodied, layered and ethereal, it's long and mineral, with bright acids and a saline finish.
92-94+ points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Jan 2021)With the 50% whole bunch fruit, the 2019 Volnay Les Caillerets 1er Cru has one of the most captivating bouquets from Glantenay with red cherries, redcurrant and rose petal aromas, very harmonious and focused. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannins and a well judged bead of acidity. This is very expressive of its terroir and having tasted Lafarge’s own Caillerets on the preceeding visit, I would say this is almost as good. Wonderful - Glantenay’s pick of his own wines this vintage. Drink 2023 - 2040.
91-93 points
Neal Martin - Vinous -
- 92
- 92
2019 Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay Volnay Clos des Chenes Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$240. 00Bottle$2880.00 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkOnce known only to a dedicated group of Burgundy devotees due to their reputation selling much of the production to noted perfectionists Dominique Laurent and Lalou Bize-Leroy, Domaine Thierry Glantenay now enjoys no such anonymity. Formally trained as an engineer, Thierry brings those methodical and exacting skills to his winemaking, crafting ethereal Volnay and powerful Pommard that display fantastic transparency of each specific terroir. Blessed with small parcels in the best vineyards of Volnay and Pommard, Thierry has set about a gradual process of refining and perfecting how his vines are managed, and guiding the wines through vinification with a delicate touch.
Other Reviews....
The most powerful wine in the cellar is the 2019 Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Chênes, a rich, muscular cuvée that offers up notes of plums, cherries, orange rind, spices and burning embers. Full-bodied, ample and muscular, it's deep and layered, with plenty of ripe, fleshy fruit cloaking its broad chassis of tannin.
92-94 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Jan 2021)The 2019 Volnay Clos des Chênes 1er Cru has a fruit-driven bouquet with ample redcurrant and raspberry aromas, touches of limestone and flint percolating through with time. Very classy aromatics. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, quite lithe and sensual, just a hint of bitter cherry towards the finish. Very elegant, perhaps the most elegant of Glantenay’s crus this vintage, it may also be more approachable than the Les Rugiens or Caillerets. Drink 2022 - 2042.
92-94 points
Neal Martin - Vinous - 2019 Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay Volnay Vieilles VignesBurgundy, FRANCE$140. 00Bottle$1680.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: Cork
Once known only to a dedicated group of Burgundy devotees due to their reputation selling much of the production to noted perfectionists Dominique Laurent and Lalou Bize Leroy, Domaine Thierry Glantenay now enjoys no such anonymity. Formally trained as an engineer, Thierry brings those methodical and exacting skills to his winemaking, crafting ethereal Volnay and powerful Pommard that display fantastic transparency of each specific terroir. Blessed with small parcels in the best vineyards of Volnay and Pommard, Thierry has set about a gradual process of refining and perfecting how his vines are managed, and guiding the wines through vinification with a delicate touch.
Other Reviews....
Offering up aromas of wild berries, spices, raw cocoa and dried petals, Glantenay's 2019 Volnay Village is medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, with lively acids and a long, nicely perfumed finish. As usual, this includes two small premier cru parcels in Les Lurets and En l'Ormeau that Glantenay doesn't vinify separately and which represent around 20% of the cuvée.
89-91 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Jan 2021)The 2019 Volnay Village, matured in 20% new oak, shows a small reduction on the nose though there appears to be plenty of crunchy red berry fruit in situ. The palate is well balanced with crunchy red berry fruit, fine acidity and freshness, sporting Pommard-like structure and austerity towards the finish and finally graphite on the aftertaste. Drink 2023 - 2033.
88-90 points
Neal Martin - Vinous -
- 84
- 88
2019 Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay Bourgogne Cote D'OrBurgundy, FRANCE$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkOnce known only to a dedicated group of Burgundy devotees due to their reputation selling much of the production to noted perfectionists Dominique Laurent and Lalou Bize-Leroy, Domaine Thierry Glantenay now enjoys no such anonymity. Formally trained as an engineer, Thierry brings those methodical and exacting skills to his winemaking, crafting ethereal Volnay and powerful Pommard that display fantastic transparency of each specific terroir. Blessed with small parcels in the best vineyards of Volnay and Pommard, Thierry has set about a gradual process of refining and perfecting how his vines are managed, and guiding the wines through vinification with a delicate touch.
Other Reviews....
The 2019 Bourgogne Rouge delivers inviting aromas of cassis, sweet berries, spices and orange rind, followed by a medium to full-bodied, ample and fleshy palate that's lively and sapid. After the rich, gourmand 2018, the 2019 is a touch more nuanced and dynamic, but this is always a dependable cuvée. Drink 2020 - 2028.
88 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Jan 2021)The 2019 Bourgogne Rouge comes from three parcels. It shows some reduction on the nose that makes it difficult to read. The palate is medium-bodied with a sour cherry note on the entry, brittle tannins and a fresh, classically styled finish. Drink 2021 - 2024.
84-86 points
Neal Martin - Vinous -
- 91
2016 Thistle Ridge North Canterbury Pinot NoirNorth Canterbury, NEW ZEALAND$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2020-2025)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. Pronounced anise top notes intermix with black cherries and dark plum followed by toasty cedar, forest floor and spice notes. Rich spicy anise flavours dominate the palate but it lacks drive with some dark plum, toasty oak and forest floor elements also chiming in. Dryish finish with slightly grainy tannins and a modest aftertaste that has a scorched earth nuance to it.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 94
- 95
2022 Gathering Field by Thousand Candles Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinComprised of vineyards, cattle pastures and native bush, the Thousand Candles estate stretches over 1100 acres making it one of the biggest land holdings in the Yarra Valley. The vineyard was planted in 1995 and is just over 60 acres in size with a focus on Pinot Noir. Stuart Proud is in charge of the winemaking.
The fruit for this wine was hand picked from select parcels of the estate’s best blocks which have an easterly aspect allowing the vines to avoid the harsh afternoon sun. Fermented in small batches over two weeks with minimal intervention the wine was then matured for 6 months in older French oak barriques and hogsheads.
Semi translucent bright red to dark red colour with a light red hue. Perfumed scents of violets, dark cherries, strawberries, anise and dried clove sail through the nostrils with some subtle rhubarb, forest floor and spice notes also evident. Delicious red to dark cherry, strawberry and anise flavours carry a fresh supple feel with notions of clove, forest floor and spice lying underneath. Frisky acidity and polished tannins concluding savoury and elegant.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.5%
Other Reviews......
All MV6 clone and 10–30% whole bunches. A light, bright ruby red. Another delicate yet well-defined pinot from Stuart and the team at Thousand Candles. Aromas of wild strawberries, red cherries and fresh rose petals Light to medium bodied and gently sinewy on the palate, finishing with silky, persistent tannins. This is delicious now but will be even better 2–3 years from now. Just as good and just as well priced as the very good '21. Drink by 2028.
95 points
Philip Rich - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion -
- 93
- 94
2019 Thousand Candles Single Vineyard Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2022-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkDeep dark red core with black shaded edges and a dark red hue. Delicate violet like aromatics intermix with red cherry, hints of rhubarb, sour cherry, dried herbs, earth and spicy vanillin cedar. The elegant palate carries light body weight with sour cherry and rhubarb flavours melding into clove, subtle earth and spicy vanillin cedar. Bright tangy like acidity and fine grained tannins with a savoury mid length conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13%
Other Reviews….
Very ‘natural’ feeling wines from Thousand Candles these days. I like it.
Cherry, red fruits, a little nutty and earthy, dried herb and perfume. Medium-bodied, fleshy and unforced, kind of spiced ripe strawberry, soft but balanced acidity, a slight orange peel/amaro tang, but again it’s all so gentle and comely, with ripe sooty tannin, maybe something of a coffee bean and hazelnut flavour, and ripples of delicious tannin on a pretty long finish. I really like this. It’s individual and lovely to drink. Drink 2022-2027+
94 points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front -
- 94
2017 Tibooburra Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2023-2024)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent bright red colour with a light red hue. Fragrant aromas of ripe red cherries and strawberries laced with violets merge into anise, some meaty characters, forest floor and spicy cedar notes. Light and supple in the mouth the palate possesses a savoury flavour profile of spicy ripe red cherries and strawberries subtlety infused with clove over some meaty anise like characters and lightly earthed cedar. Velvet smooth tannins. Solid power wave. Finishes with bright acidity and a long conclusion of spicy ripe cherries, strawberries, subtle anise, dried meats and earthy cedar.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
2021 Tiefenbrunner Turmhof Blauburgunder Pinot NoirAlto Adige, ITALY$52. 99Bottle$635.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinFounded in 1848 Tiefenbrunner is considered to be a benchmark producer in the Alto-Adige region. Dark red core with black shaded edges and a red to dark red hue. Aromas of red to dark cherries infused with fresh herbs are followed by some stalky notes, earth and spice. A delicious mix of red and dark cherries are complimented by earth, dried herb and spice characters. Nicely fleshed it has polished tannins, fresh underlying acidity and a savoury finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 93
2020 Tokar Estate Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2021-2026)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinRetasted on 23/11/2021
Matured in French oak hogsheads, 25% new, for a period of 8 months. Semi translucent dark red colour with a light red hue. Delicate violet scents intermingle with red cherry, forest floor, fresh herb and spicy cedar notes. Light in body the palate is layered with red to dark cherry and winter strawberry fruits which are interwoven with forest floor, dried herb and spicy cedar elements. Fresh yet relatively supple in its feel with polished tannins and a savoury conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%Matured in French oak hogsheads, 25% new, for 8 months. Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light red hue. A pretty bouquet of rose petals, red cherries, strawberries and subtle clove blossoms from the glass with good intensity. Forest floor and smoky cedar notes ensue. Delicious ripe cherry and strawberry fruits are supple in their feel and show plenty of drive. Velvet smooth tannins with ascents of forest floor, dried clove and spicy cedar making an appearance on the back half. Concludes long and savoury.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 92
2019 Tokar Estate Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: 4 - 5 Years (2024-2025)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent bright red core with subtle tinges of black around the edges and a light crimson red hue. Fragrant violet, red cherry and winter strawberry scents have a meaty clove like overlay with some forest floor and spice notes also evident. Light in body the palate has a savoury flavour profile of red cherries and winter strawberries with a light meatiness, forest floor and spicy herbs in the background. Bright fresh acidity with fine grained tannins and a medium length finish.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 93
2018 Tokar Estate Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2019-2023)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent bright red core with a light crimson hue. Fragrant ripe red cherry and strawberry aromas stream out of the glass followed by a mix of dried herbs, forest floor and light spicy cedar. Delicious ripe cherry and strawberry flavours have a juicy supple feel and savoury edge with underlying forest floor, subtle spicy cedar and dried herb infusions. Nice bright finish with velvet like tannins and a moreish ripe red berry aftertaste.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 93
2016 Tokar Estate Carafe & Tumbler Pinot ShirazYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2019-2021)ABV: 14.5%Closure: StelvinA blend of 58% Pinot Noir and 42% Shiraz. Deep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. Aromas of spicy red and sour cherries intermix with red liquorice, infusions of fresh herbs and pepper notes. Juicy dark cherry flavours meld into liquorice, subtle dried herb and spicy pepper characters on the savoury light to mid weight palate. Finishes with nicely balanced fresh acidity, velvety tannins and a moreish aftertaste.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 14.5%
Other Reviews….
870 dozen made. In previous years Tokar Estate has produced a field blend but I suspect this Pinot Shiraz replaces it in the range.
This makes a clear argument in favour of this blend. It’s a beautiful drink, it has good weight of fruit, it shows spice and clove flavours and it carries on convincingly through the finish. At every turn it impresses. The fruit is sweet and ripe but it turns savoury through the back third of the wine, or thereabouts. Balance is impeccable too. Clear thumbs up. Drink 2017-2024+
92 points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front -
- 96
2023 Tolpuddle Vineyard Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$105. 00Bottle$1260.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinTolpuddle Vineyard was established in 1988 in the Coal River Valley between Hobart and the town of Richmond. Martin Shaw and Michael Hill Smith MW purchased the vineyard in 2011 and are fully committed to seeing Tolpuddle Vineyard recognised as one of Australia’s great single vineyards.
The cool climate here is at the extremes for viticulture in Australia, perfect for producing ultra-premium Chardonnay & Pinot Noir. Contrary to most cool climates, the Coal River doesn’t receive much rainfall, allowing the grapes to mature slowly throughout Autumn, without the disease pressure that heavy rainfall can bring. The vineyard is planted on a gentle north-east facing slope, which is composed of moderate vigour silica-soil, which results in well-balanced vines producing grapes of great flavour and intensity. 2023 was the third consecutive cold season in the Coal River Valley, the cool conditions, especially at flowering, resulted in low yields, delivering wines with concentrated flavours and great natural acidity.Other Reviews.....
A cooler vintage for Tolpuddle with some hen and chicken and lighter bunches due to a wetter-than-normal spring, before excellent ripening conditions for the remainder of the growing season. When compared to the '22 release there is a little more concentration on display. Vibrant, magenta-splashed ruby in the glass with aromas of dark cherry, plum and blackberry fruits with hints of crushed herbs, softly spoken vanillin oak, raspberry coulis, charcuterie board, purple flowers, bay leaf and stone. Rich and flowy with spice, herbal and floral tendrils weaving through the pure base layers of dark fruits. Textural and harmonious with finely crushed riverstone tannins and mineral line providing support and cadence. Another cracking release from Tolpuddle.
96 points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion -
- 96
- 95
- 94
2022 Tolpuddle Vineyard Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinTolpuddle Vineyard was established in 1988 in the Coal River Valley between Hobart and the town of Richmond. Martin Shaw and Michael Hill Smith MW purchased the vineyard in 2011 and are fully committed to seeing Tolpuddle Vineyard recognised as one of Australia’s great single vineyards.
The cool climate here is at the extremes for viticulture in Australia, perfect for producing ultra-premium Chardonnay & Pinot Noir. Contrary to most cool climates, the Coal River doesn’t receive much rainfall, allowing the grapes to mature slowly throughout Autumn, without the disease pressure that heavy rainfall can bring. The vineyard is planted on a gentle north-east facing slope, which is composed of moderate vigour silica-soil, which results in well-balanced vines producing grapes of great flavour and intensity. 2022 was the coldest vintage the winery experienced in more than a decade. The cool conditions, especially at flowering, resulted in low yields, delivering wines with concentrated flavours and great natural acidity.Other Reviews....
Tolpuddle has firmly cemented its position at the pointy end of the Tasmanian pinot noir pyramid, consistently producing knockout wines that have become a benchmark for the region. Nothing changes with the 2022 release, which shows wonderful fruit intensity and oodles of pinosity in a graceful package. Lovely pure dark cherry and wild strawberry fruits, cut with exotic spice, charcuterie, roasting game, shiitake broth, amaro herbs, purple floral tones and complex forest floor notes. Textural and elegant yet with an undercurrent of latent power and intensity,a tight tannin frame and a long finish that shows balance and poise. Just wonderful stuff. Drink 2024 - 2038.
96 Points
Dave Brookes - Halliday's Australian Wine CompanionVery good Tassie pinot. Root spice and earthy forestry notes of dried porcini dashi, autumnal leaves and loganberry, set in relief against a swathe of darker cherry. The spiky whole bunch inclusion is evident across the finish reeling off a whiff of dill and mezcal, yet it is largely buried by the extract and density. This should age very well, as the record at this address attests. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
95 Points
Ned Goodwin MW - JamesSuckling.comThere’s a fair few primo 2022 pinots from Tasmania out there that seem kind of bony and firm, and this joins the ranks. Structure and seriousness aren’t missed in the wines, but a sense that 2022, from all over the vast Tasmania GI, are a restrained lot. With some air time, this wine opened with some prettiness, so a decant or airtime is ideal.
A racy pinot noir, tense with a sheath of graphite-laced tannin, set to cedary, mahogany oak seasoning as a strong currency, and laced with dark cherry, panforte, hazelnut and twiggy herbs, with a gentle smoky spice element in tow. It drives with its frisky acidity, a feature that keeps the wine refreshing and edgy, reminiscent of wines to be drunk a while down the trail. I liked the wine more with time spent with it, evolving attractively and offering more perfume and flavour as the hours went by. Serious stuff here, for those seeking pinot of firmness and architecture. Drink 2025 - 2035+
94+ Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front -
- 97
- 98
2024 Tolpuddle Vineyard Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinTolpuddle Vineyard was established in 1988 in Tasmania's Coal River Valley, between Hobart and Richmond. When Martin Shaw and Michael Hill Smith MW purchased the site in 2011, they recognised its potential to produce exceptional cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and set about realising it. Their vision has since been fulfilled, with Tolpuddle now firmly regarded as one of Australia's great single-vineyard estates.
The Coal River Valley sits at the limits of viable viticulture, its long, cool growing season ideally suited to producing wines of precision and fine structure. Unlike many other cool regions, rainfall here is low, allowing the fruit to ripen slowly through autumn with minimal disease pressure. The vineyard's gentle north-east aspect and silica-rich soils of moderate vigour promote balance in the vines and produce fruit of notable concentration and character.
Tolpuddle's reputation has grown steadily over the past decade, and today its wines are among the most sought after in Australia. Production remains focused solely on the estate's two varieties, with a commitment to vineyard expression above all else.
After a dry winter, the 2024 season brought well-timed spring and summer rainfall followed by mild, settled conditions through to harvest. The even ripening period and moderate yields have produced wines that reflect the site's hallmark purity and balance, an elegant and complete expression of this remarkable vineyard.
Other Reviews....
Another exceptional bottling from this famous producer. Deeply perfumed, brooding aromas of blue and black fruits are supported with underlying notes of forest floor, pencil shavings, pomegranate, rose petals and dried herbs. The silken palate has firmly framed, rounded tannins balanced by mineral-driven acidity. This Grand Cru-level pinot noir will last for decades to come, albeit fresh, reduced and seductive now. Brilliant. Drink or hold.
98 points
JamesSuckling.comA wonderfully perfumed and composed wine that comes across as a little finer in aromatic detail than the excellent '23 release. It's an amalgam of clones – 777, 667, Abel, Pommard, MV6 and some that winemaker Adam Wadewitz snaffled from Best's Great Western – all playing their part in the final blend. Vibrant dark cherry, red berry and raspberry fruit tones mesh with hints of exotic spice, a whiff of negroni, juniper, wild strawberry, almond paste, integrated vanillin oak, meadow flowers and crushed stone. Everything plays at concert pitch, with complex whole bunch (50%) notes, the gentle tension of ground-riverstone tannins and a fine, mineral line as the wine slowly trails away. A cracking release that smells and tastes of a special place. Drink 2025-2043.
97 points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion -
- 96
2021 Tolpuddle Vineyard Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$94. 99Bottle$1139.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinTolpuddle Vineyard was established in 1988 in the Coal River Valley between Hobart and the town of Richmond. Martin Shaw and Michael Hill Smith MW purchased the vineyard in 2011 and are fully committed to seeing Tolpuddle Vineyard recognised as one of Australia’s great single vineyards.
The cool climate here is at the extremes for viticulture in Australia, perfect for producing ultra-premium Chardonnay & Pinot Noir. Contrary to most cool climates, the Coal River doesn’t receive much rainfall, allowing the grapes to mature slowly throughout Autumn, without the disease pressure that heavy rainfall can bring. The vineyard is planted on a gentle north-east facing slope, which is composed of moderate vigour silica-soil, which results in well-balanced vines producing grapes of great flavour and intensity.
The 2021 vintage was one of the coolest seasons on record, leading to a high percentage of small berries, resulting in lower yields and excellent concentration of flavour.Notes from the winery....
This wine is true to the Tolpuddle Vineyard style. It has very intense red and dark berry fruit, as well as some wild fennel and rhubarb notes on the nose. On the palate, there is a lot of concentrated fruit, balanced by fresh acidity and some fine tannins. Cherry and raspberry notes through to darker blueberry and boysenberry give complexity to a palate that flows seamlessly, and some Chinese five spice characters give a hint of more savoury notes to come with time.
The grapes were all hand-picked and fermented as a combination of whole berries and whole bunches, in open fermenters, with gentle plunging. The wine was aged in French oak for nine months, of which about one third was new.
Other Reviews....
Riffing off the same playbook as the excellent 2020 Pinot Noir, this 2021 Pinot Noir is fine, floral, mineral, structured and if possible, a little more structured and perfect than the 2020. It captures a ductile flow of tannin that shapes the fruit, capturing a glistening display of perfectly ripe, restrained fruit. Together, it makes for a polished, scintillating wine. Exceptional. Drink 2022 - 2041
96+ points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate -
- 99
2020 Tolpuddle Vineyard Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Screw CapTolpuddle Vineyard was established in 1988 in the Coal River Valley between Hobart and the town of Richmond. Martin Shaw and Michael Hill Smith MW purchased the vineyard in 2011 and are fully committed to seeing Tolpuddle Vineyard recognised as one of Australia’s great single vineyards.
The cool climate here is at the extremes for viticulture in Australia, perfect for producing ultra-premium Chardonnay & Pinot Noir. Contrary to most cool climates, the Coal River doesn’t receive much rainfall, allowing the grapes to mature slowly throughout Autumn, without the disease pressure that heavy rainfall can bring. The vineyard is planted on a gentle north-east facing slope, which is composed of moderate vigour silica-soil, which results in well-balanced vines producing grapes of great flavour and intensity. The 2020 vintage saw slightly unsettled flowering resulted in mild “hen and chicken” in the grapes which increased their concentration and intensity. Some rainfall before harvest resulted in higher-than-normal acidity, and prolonged flavour development.
Notes from the winery....
This wine has gorgeous aromatics with violets and red berries to the fore. There is abundant fruit, with sour cherry, raspberry, blueberry, and a touch of rhubarb. Underlying savoury characters include graphite and cured meat, and some toasted spices. Medium weight, with very fine tannins. Fresh and enticing, perfumed and delicious. All hand-picked fruit is fermented as a combination of whole berries and whole bunches, in open wooden and stainless fermenters, with gentle plunging. Aged in French oak for ten months, of which about one third was new. Will repay careful cellaring for up to 12 years.Other Reviews....
This is a wine we have not yet seen from Tolpuddle. It has such well-curated complexity and whole-bunch influence (40%) sits in the sweet spot. It is concentrated, yet so elegant and the vivid freshness that pervades every aspect of the nose and palate is striking. Aromas of red fruit, such as raspberry, strawberry, red cherry and red plum are framed in spice and fragrance. The palate has such impressive definition and clarity and the tannins are so detailed, fine and clear-cut. Concentrated red and darker cherries are fleshy, yet elegantly focused, and the acidity laces it all up so clearly. So drinkable now and for a decade at least. Screw cap.
99 Points
JamesSuckling.com (October 2021) -
- 98
- 95
2018 Tolpuddle Vineyard Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$76. 99Bottle$923.88 DozenCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red colour with a light purple red hue. Enchanting aromatics of violets, dark cherries, ripe strawberries and anise are drawn through the nostrils with a perfumed like intensity. Trailing notes of lightly toasted cedar, forest floor, some meatiness, fragrant herbs and spice complete the complex profile. Delicious ripe dark cherry, strawberry and anise fruit layer the palate with an exceptional power wave of flavour. Elements of subtlety toasted cedar, forest floor, dried meats and spicy dried herbs then chime in on the back palate to add further intrigue. Perfectly balanced fresh acidity and velvety yet structural tannins carry the fruit effortlessly. Magnificent drive concluding exceptionally long.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
This is a very driven and complex red with dried-strawberry, tea, coffee and mahogany aromas and flavors. Full-bodied yet integrated and compact, giving the wine a refined and very structured impression. This is one to watch. Better after 2022, but already delicious. Screw cap.
95 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 94
2019 Tomich ‘Tomich Hill’ Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2022-2024)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light brick red hue. Fragrant, pretty and alluring the nose offers up scents of dark cherries and rhubarb trailed by hints of anise, dried herbs and spicy cedar. Light to medium bodied and very silky in its feel the palate is layered with delicious ripe dark cherry, strawberry and rhubarb fruits which sit over brambly dried herbs, forest floor and spicy cedar. Velvet smooth tannins with soft acidity and a long, supple conclusion.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 94
2018 Tomich Duck & Weave Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2020-2025)ABV: 13%Closure: CorkProduced from a terrific vintage in the Adelaide Hills with 10% whole bunch inclusion and maturation in French oak barrels this would have to be one of the best value Pinot’s going around.
Deep dark red at its core with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Spicy dark cherry, plum and anise scents show good intensity with more subtle fresh herb and forest floor notes ensuing. Light to medium weight the palate is flooded with dark cherry, plum and anise flavours which are both supple in their feel and expansive. Notions of forest floor, fresh herb infusions and spicy cedar sit underneath. Velvet smooth tannins, balanced acidity and a lengthy aftertaste finish off what is quite a moreish Pinot.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
- Reduced
2019 Tomich Duck & Weave Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $19.99$15. 99Bottle$191.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2021-2024)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinThe Tomich family has one of the biggest vineyard holdings in the Adelaide Hills spanning over 320 acres. Within that are 27 individual vineyard blocks each planted to their own terroir. 2019 was a low yielding yet high quality vintage, this Pinot produced with 10% whole bunch inclusion and maturation in French oak barrels.
Easy drinking, fresh and flavoursome, at just $16 this would have to be one of the best value Pinot’s going around.
Semi translucent dark red colour with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. A fragrant mix of violets, dark cherries, wild strawberries, subtle anise, forest floor and delicate spicy cedar scents sail out of the glass. Rich and supple in texture, the light to medium bodied palate is awash with dark cherry and wild strawberry fruits which oversee a back drop of anise, forest floor, dried herbs and gentle spicy cedar. Excellent power wave with very polished tannins and a long moreish aftertaste. Alc. 13% Alc.Vol.
-
- 95
- 96
2018 Tomich Icons of Woodside I777 Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2020-2024)ABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkDeep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Aromas of dark cherries and ripe strawberries are complimented by subtle anise, scorched earth, dried meats and spicy herbs. Rich dark cherry and strawberry fruits have a silky feel over dried herb, lightly scorched earth, dried meat and spicy cedar elements. Velvet smooth tannins with good power and a long dark fruited aftertaste that has nuances if dried herbs filtering through it.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5%
Other Reviews….
The nomenclature refers to Block I and straight 777 clone, an earlier ripening Dijon clone. The vineyard is cared for holistically, sans accreditation. The future, perhaps? Because this is an exceptional Adelaide Hills pinot. As good as the region gives us. Nothing root-spiced sarsaparilla about this. Thankfully. Truffled underbrush, cherry red and black and most joyously, fibrous svelte tannins and natural feeling acidity propelling this long. Very. The tannins growing in stature (30% whole bunch; classy French barrique) across the mouth. Bravo! Drink by 2025.
96 points
Ned Goodwin – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 93
2017 Tomich Woodside Vineyard Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2019-2023)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Very fragrant nose with ripe cherry and strawberry scents laced with anise blossoming from the glass followed by forest floor, subtle stalky cedar and spicy dried herb notes. Light in body with a supple fleshy feel, there’s ample richness to the dark cherry and ripe strawberry fruit which is subtlety infused with dried herbs, forest floor and spice. Velvet smooth tannins. Good length with a medium to long finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
2019 Tomich Woodside Vineyard Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2021-2025)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinAged in French oak barriques. Deep dark red core with black tinged edges and a medium dark red hue. Blossoming out of the glass are perfumed scents of violets, ripe dark cherries and anise followed by dried herbs, forest floor and spicy cedar. Rich dark fruits have a soft fleshy feel across the palate underscored by anise, dried herbs, forest floor and spice. Excellent power wave with silky tannins and a long generously flavoured and supple finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 92
2017 Tomich Vineyards Duck & Weave Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenCellar: 2 - 3 Years (2021-2022)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red core with a light red hue. Fragrant scents of violets, dark cherries, ripe strawberries and subtle anise intermingle with forest floor and spicy fresh herb infusions. Light in body with a juicy supple mouthfeel the palate is flavoured with ripe cherries, strawberries and forest floor characters over a back drop of dried herbs and spice. Velvety tannins. Good richness and depth concluding with a medium length aftertaste.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 93
- 92
2021 Toolangi Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2022-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinMatured in French oak of which 5% was new for a period of 10 months. Semi translucent dark red colour with black shaded edges and a light red hue. Fragrant scents of violets, dark cherries, strawberries and subtle anise emanate from the glass followed by forest floor, dried herb and spicy cedar notes. Delicious ripe dark cherry and strawberry fruits overlay a delicate back drop of forest floor, dried herbs and spicy cedar. Supple mouthfeel with silky tannins. Finishes with a savoury mid length conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews…..
A small portion of whole bunches (5%) and 10 months in French oak (5% new). A light, bright cherry red in the glass with aromas of violets, rose petal and red fruits. Light on its feet, yet with good depth and persistence. A smashable and well-priced pinot to drink now and over the next two to three years. Drink by 2024.
92 Points
Philip Rich – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 94
2020 Toolangi Pauls Lane Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)ABV: 13.3%Closure: StelvinFermented with 75% whole bunch fruit and matured in French oak, 15% new, for a period of 9 months. Semi translucent dark red colour with black shaded edges and a red hue. Very perfumed the nose offers up violet, spicy dark cherry, strawberry and subtle rhubarb scents which are trailed by forest floor, dried herbs and cedar. Light in body, moderately powered and possessing an elegant feel the palate features spicy red cherry, winter strawberry and rhubarb flavours over forest floor and spicy cedar. Fine grained tannins finishing with good freshness and a focused medium length aftertaste.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.3% -
- 96
- 96
2019 Toolangi E Block Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSixty percent whole bunches were included in the fermentation process with maturation taking place in French oak of which 30% was new for a period of 10 months. Semi translucent dark red colour with black shaded edges and a light red hue. Perfumed violet like top notes are complimented by winter strawberry, rhubarb, forest floor, stalk and spicy cedar scents. Delicious spicy dark cherry, winter strawberry and rhubarb fruits are both expansive and powerful across the lighter bodied palate. Adding complexity are forest floor, dried herb and spicy cedar characters. Supple and highly polished with delicately rendered tannins and a long savoury aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
18yo MV6 clones, hand-picked, destemmed whole berries, cold soak, 12 days on skins, matured in French oak (10% new) for 10 months. Very well made to throw all of the attention on to flavour and texture. Drink by 2029.
96 Points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion -
- 92
2019 Toolangi Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2020-2025)ABV: 12.8%Closure: StelvinMatured in French oak (10% new) for a period of 10 months. Semi translucent bright ruby red colour with a light red hue. A fragrant bouquet of ripe cherries, raspberries and strawberries fills the nostrils with hints of anise and spice also present. Fresh with a juicy Grenache like quality, filling the mouth are ripe red raspberry and cherry fruits which overlay strawberry, faint anise and a subtle spice back drop. Bright finish with silky tannins and a simple yet tasty aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12.8% -
- 94
2018 Toolangi Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2020-2025)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinIncludes 50% whole bunches with maturation taking place in French oak (20% new) for a period of 8 months. Semi translucent dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Meaty aromas of cherries and strawberries meld into forest floor, dried herbs and spice. Delicious ripe cherry and strawberry flavours fill the mouth giving it a supple feel. Spicy cedar, forest floor, subtle dried herbs and some meaty characters ensue. Lively, balanced acidity and velvety tannins with good power leading into a savoury aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%
Other Reviews….
I’m bullish on Toolangi at the moment. This was grown on 17 year old vines and saw 50% whole bunches.
Get onto this. It’s an excellent wine at an excellent price. It has power and presence, fruit and spice, and it crackles long through the finish. Whole bunch influence here is clear but the fruit swaggers on through. I tasted this a few months ago and liked it; I tasted it again today and loved it. It’s a good trajectory. Beet, cherries, nuts and stemmy, smoky spices aplenty. It’s not the top wine in the Toolangi range but it acts as though it is. Drink 2019-2025.
93 points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front -
- 94
2018 Toolangi Estate Pauls Lane Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2020-2025)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinFifty percent whole bunch, matured in French oak, 20% new for 8 months. Semi translucent dark red core with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Top notes of violets and clove overlay red cherries and winter strawberries with subtle smoky cedar, forest floor and spicy herbs in the background. Delicious ripe cherry and strawberry fruits are underpinned by subtle clove, notions of spicy cedar and forest floor. Supple textural feel with silky tannins, an excellent power wave and long moreish aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%
Other Reviews….
Destemmed to open fermenters, 50% whole bunches, 23 days on skins, 8 months in oak (20% new). It somehow manages to be complex and effortless at once. Sappy herbs, boysenberry and red cherry, fennel seeds and tobacco. There's smoky oak too, and associated svelte texture, but there's so much going on that it's hard to see where one thing starts and the other leaves off. Always a good sign. It's a wine to make pinot drinkers happy. Drink by 2026.
95 points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front -
- 93
2021 Torn Mornington Peninsula Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2022-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent red to dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Evolving from the glass are fragrant aromas of violets, red to dark cherries and strawberries followed by hints of anise, forest floor and spicy cedar. Making a smooth entry onto the light weight palate are cherry, strawberry and subtle rhubarb fruits. Polished tannins with notions of forest floor and spicy cedar also chiming in. Balanced savoury medium length finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 91
2017 Totara Pinot NoirMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2019-2022)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with a light crimson red hue. Blossoming from the glass are aromatics of dark cherries, dark plum and anise with some toasty oak and spicy forest floor notes also evident. Juicy and supple in its feel the palate has a flavour profile of ripe dark cherries, anise, toasty oak and spice. Slightly dryish finish with fresh acidity and finely grained tannins. Medium length conclusion.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 91
2016 Totara Pinot NoirMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: 3 - 4 Years (2022-2023)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red core with a light red hue. Fragrant ripe dark cherry and plum aromas laced with anise are preceded by toasty cedar and spicy dried herb notes. Light to medium weight the palate dishes up ripe dark cherry flavours with anise and lightly toasted cedar also present. Finishes spicy and fresh with slightly dryish, fine grained tannins and medium length.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 97
2017 Tout Pres By Farr Pinot NoirGeelong, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2019-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkIncludes 100% whole bunch fruit. Deep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. Intensely fragrant the nose possesses a strong whole bunch element with dried clove, red to dark cherry, dried herb, smoky stalky like cedar, some meatiness, forest floor and spice scents. Beautifully balanced and concentrated, the palate has much more fruit purity than the nose, the whole bunch characters not nearly as prominent. Very supple in its mouthfeel the palate is decorated with delicious red to dark cherry and red currant fruits which overlay subtle infusions of dried clove, forest floor, meaty characters, vanillin cedar and spicy dried herbs. Velvet smooth tannins yet quite structural underneath. Superb power with a very long and savoury aftertaste.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 89
2021 Trenel Bourgogne Pinot NoirBurgundy, FRANCE$42. 99Bottle$515.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)ABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkSemi translucent dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Spicy cherry and rhubarb aromas infused with clove are followed by some earth and dried herb notes. Light in body and very elegant the palate features red cherry and rhubarb flavours over a dried herb, earth and spice background. Fine grained tannins finishing fresh and savoury.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 89
2023 Trentham Estate ‘Estate Grown’ Pinot NoirMurray Darling, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinAn easy going, fruit forward Pinot.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Ripe cherry and strawberry aromas mix with hints of mint, earth and spice. Juicy cherry and strawberry fruits overlay an earthy mint and spice back drop. Fleshy textured it has polished tannins and an easy going fruit forward finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 91
2021 Trentham Estate Grown Pinot NoirMurray Darling, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$15. 99Bottle$191.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2022-2023)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with a light red hue. Lifted ripe cherry and strawberry aromas intermingle with hints of forest floor, fresh herbs and spice. Supplely textured the palate features generous spicy dark cherry and strawberry fruits over earth and dried herb characters. Silky smooth tannins combine with soft acidity, the aftertaste ripe and savoury.
Drink now to 1 year.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Trentham Estate Grown Pinot NoirMurray Darling, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$16. 99Bottle$203.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent red to dark red colour with a light red hue. Spicy cherry and rhubarb aromas are complimented by dried herb and forest floor notes. Savoury red to dark cherry and rhubarb flavours overlay a brambly dried herb and spice back drop. Juicy feel with fine grained tannins and a polished conclusion that shows plenty of spice.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 88
2018 Trentham Estate Pinot NoirMurray Darling, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$13. 99Bottle$167.88 DozenABV: 14%Closure: Screw CapOther Reviews….
There's enough pinot noir varietal character to pay attention to the wine given the virtually impossible climate of the Murray Darling, but it's a Leviathan effort to get this far. Drink by 2022.
88 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion -
- 89
2017 Trentham Estate Pinot NoirMurray Darling, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$13. 99Bottle$167.88 DozenCellar: Drink now (2019)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with a red to brick red hue. Aromas of ripe dark cherries, earthy dried herbs and spice. Light to medium weight with a supple entry the palate dishes up flavours of dark cherries, earth and dried herbs. Spicy finish with bright acidity, slightly dryish tannins and a moderate aftertaste.
Drink now.
Alc. 14% -
- 88
2017 True Colours Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$21. 99Bottle$263.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now (2019)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. Violet laced dark cherry and strawberry aromas meld into anise and spice. Light in body savoury dark cherry and anise flavours are to the fore with some earth and spice ensuing. Slightly dryish tannins. Moderate spicy aftertaste, lacking depth.
Drink now.
Alc. 13%
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.















































