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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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% -
- 91
- Organic
2023 Two Paddocks Picnic Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2024-2028)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinCertified organic with fermentation and maturation taking place in French oak (2% new) for a period of 9 months. Semi translucent dark red colour with black toned edges and a bright purple red hue. Fragrant violet, wild strawberry and red plum aromas drift from the glass with hints of anise, dried herbs and spice also evident. Light, fresh and juicy the palate features red cherry and strawberry fruits over a back drop of rhubarb, earth, dried herbs and spice. Fine, slightly chalky tannins with lively acidity leading into an energetic red fruited conclusion.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 92
- Organic
2022 Two Paddocks Picnic Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinCertified organic with fermentation and maturation taking place in French oak. Deep dark purple red in colour with black shaded edges and a purple red hue. Spicy dark cherry and plum aromas emerge from the glass with hints of anise, earth and dried herbs also present. Light in body and fleshy textured the palate features dark cherry and dark plum fruit over a delicate earth, anise and spicy cedar back drop. Fine grained tannins with a savoury mid length conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
- Organic
2021 Two Paddocks Picnic Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinCertified organic. Deep dark red in colour with black shaded edges and a dark purple hue. Elevated spicy dark cherry and anise aromas mix with dried meat, strawberry and earthy graphite like notes. Juicy dark cherry and ripe strawberry fruits are underpinned by fresh acidity which imparts an energetic feel. Ensuing are spicy anise, dried meat and earthy graphite elements. Good drive with polished yet structured tannins and a long savoury finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
2019 Two Paddocks Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2021-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinCertified organic. Deep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a shade lighter hue. Spicy dark cherry scents mix with a faint whiff of sour cherries, winter strawberries, graphite, stalky cedar and dried meats. Light and focused, crunchy like red cherry fruits are to the fore with notions of winter strawberries, forest floor, spicy cedar and infusions of fresh herbs chiming in on the back half. Finely grained tannins finishing with plenty of freshness and an elegant aftertaste.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
2019 Two Paddocks Picnic Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2020-2025)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinCertified organic, this Pinot was fermented and matured in predominately older French oak for a period of 9 months. Deep dark red core with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. Perfumed top notes of violets interplay with dark cherry, strawberry and anise followed by some toasty oak and spice. Light in body with a supple mid palate feel, spicy dark cherry and plum fruits overlay anise, forest floor and toasty oak. Bright finish with finely etched tannins and a savoury medium length aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 97
2018 Two Paddocks Proprietors Reserve The First Paddock Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinWhile actors venturing into the world of wine is not a new occurrence, Sam Neil's Two Paddocks venture is perhaps more of a love affair than most. Sam is a humble man with farming in his blood, and is happier talking about his farm and winery than his acting career, and it's perhaps a welcome diversion that keeps him grounded. After starting out intending to produce a decent wine to serve to family and friends, the venture is aiming high with the hope of making the finest Pinot Noir in the country.
The First Paddock is the original, much loved Two Paddocks vineyard. Planted in 1993, it is now one of the older blocks in Central Otago. Superbly situated in the midst of upper Gibbston, planted in carefully selected Burgundian clone pinot noir vines and meticulously tended. This is a thoughtfully crafted expression of their foundation site.
Other Reviews....
There’s a sweetly smoky edge to this sappy and wildly fresh pinot that has attractive wild herbs, as well as a swirling array of rose flowers, blueberries, cherries and spices. The palate has exceptional polish and deeply layered fruit tannin, glazed with spicy oak nuances and holding long, fresh and silky. From organically grown grapes.
97 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 96
2018 Two Paddocks Proprietors Reserve The Fusilier Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: StelvinWhile actors venturing into the world of wine is not a new occurrence, Sam Neil's Two Paddocks venture is perhaps more of a love affair than most. Sam is a humble man with farming in his blood, and is happier talking about his farm and winery than his acting career, and it's perhaps a welcome diversion that keeps him grounded. After starting out intending to produce a decent wine to serve to family and friends, the venture is aiming high with the hope of making the finest Pinot Noir in the country.
The Fusilier Vineyard is named in honor of Sam’s father, Major Dermot Neill, a soldier in the Royal Irish Fusilier Regiment for twenty years before returning home to Dunedin, New Zealand, where he ran the family Wine & Spirit business, Neill & Co. Planted entirely in 2000, The Fusilier is 5.6 hectares of pinot noir, on rolling northerly facing terraces at the western end of Felton Rd and bordered by the vineyard of the same name. Soils on the terraces consist of deep alluvial fans, which are made up of varying depths of silt, sand and gravel layering all derived from mountainous raw schist parent material.
Other Reviews....
Fresh aromas of red cherries and red-plum pastry here. This has very attractive, alluring style. On the palate, it has a very smoothly honed feel with rich red cherries, delivered in smooth and succulent mode. Long and silky finish, bathed in supple, ripe red-cherry flavors. From organically grown grapes.
96 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 93
2018 Two Paddocks Picnic Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: 4 - 5 Years (2024-2025)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinCertified organic and matured in French oak for 9 months, 7% being new oak. Semi translucent dark red colour with a light red hue. Aromas of dark cherries and winter strawberries intermingle with notions of fresh herbs, forest floor, some meatiness and spicy cedar. Light in body and very elegant in its feel, the palate features spicy dark cherries, forest floor, dried meats, a touch of cedar and subtle fresh herb infusions. Good freshness and refined yet structured tannins. Finishes with a savoury medium length aftertaste.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 96
- 91
2017 Two Paddocks Proprietors Reserve The First Paddock Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinThe First Paddock is the original, much loved Two Paddocks vineyard. Planted in 1993, it is now one of the older blocks in Central Otago. Superbly situated in the midst of upper Gibbston, planted in carefully selected Burgundian clone pinot noir vines and meticulously tended. This is a thoughtfully crafted expression of their foundation site.
Other Reviews....
Super lively nose with a signature layer of wild flowers and herbs, ahead of fresh, spicy red-cherry and raspberry aromas. The palate delivers a velvety array of fine red cherries, set in a smooth, seamless and long style that marries concentration and elegance. This is great pinot. Drink or hold.
96 Points
Jamessuckling.comSmoke, herb and cigar box aromas are heady and appealing as they mingle with firm cranberry and strawberry flavours at the core. Shows good structure, with firm tannins and an appealing thread of acidity weaving in and out. Drink now through to 2033.
91 Points
Wine Spectator -
- 96
2017 Two Paddocks Proprietors Reserve The Fusilier Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinThe Fusilier Vineyard is named in honor of Sam’s father, Major Dermot Neill, a soldier in the Royal Irish Fusilier Regiment for twenty years before returning home to Dunedin, New Zealand, where he ran the family Wine & Spirit business, Neill & Co. Planted entirely in 2000, The Fusilier is 5.6 hectares of pinot noir, on rolling northerly facing terraces at the western end of Felton Rd and bordered by the vineyard of the same name. Soils on the terraces consist of deep alluvial fans, which are made up of varying depths of silt, sand and gravel layering all derived from mountainous raw schist parent material.
Other Reviews....
Very complex, complete and convincing Bannockburn pinot that delivers a fascinating array of pure red cherries, sappy and spicy complexity and a beautifully arranged palate that has long, fleshy and silky fruit presence. Exceptional pinot. Drink now. Screw cap.
96 Points
Jamessuckling.com -
- 96
2017 Two Paddocks Proprietor's Reserve Last Chance Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinThe Last Chance is a beautifully sited two-hectare terrace perched in bright clear air above the Earnscleugh Valley, carefully planted with well-tended Burgundian clone pinot noir. It nestles amongst a small cluster of the World’s most southerly vineyards and takes its name from the watercourse that runs through its heart, hand dug by gold miners in the 1860s.
Other Reviews....
Aromas of boysenberries, blueberries and red cherries make for an immediately attractive pinot with some gently earthy notes and fresh violets. The palate has a supremely elegant, polished feel with a plush and elegant texture. Pinot at its seductive best. Drink or hold.
96 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 93
2017 Two Tails Pinot NoirMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2020-2023)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with a light red hue. Aromas of dark cherries and spicy wild strawberries mingle with anise, forest floor and subtle stalky herb like notes. Savoury dark cherry and strawberry flavours gently infused with stalk, dried herb and spicy forest floor elements have a supple feel. Velvet smooth tannins with a lingering and quite appealing finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
2024 Two Tonne TMV Pinot Noir - Last StocksTasmania, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 12.7%Closure: StelvinLightly weighted with fresh, juicy fruit finishing elegant and savoury.
Dark red in colour with a bright light red hue. Perfumed aromas of violets, red to dark cherries, anise and wild strawberries sail out of the glass followed by some subtle forest floor and spicy fresh herb notes. Fresh and juicy with strawberry, red cherry and anise flavours spread across the lightly weighted palate. Infusions of fresh herbs and delicate spicy cedar ensue. Lively acidity and polished tannins with an elegant and savoury mid length finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.7% -
- 95
2023 Two Tonne TMV Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA wonderfully perfumed expression of Tassie Pinot that’s light, supple and powerful across the palate.
Semi translucent dark red colour with black toned edges and a light vibrant red hue. Gorgeous nose with alluring scents of violets, red to dark cherries, strawberries and anise sailing through the olfactory senses. Fresh herb, forest floor, brambly cedar and spice notes lend further complexity. Light and supple across the palate yet powerful, delicious red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits combine with subtle anise, forest floor, infusions of fresh herbs and spicy cedar. Fresh underlying acidity and fine polished tannins finishing long and elegant.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13% - 2020 Two Tonne TMV Pinot NoirTamar Valley, Tasmania, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Screw Cap
Two Tonne has been produced since 2013 by local Tamar Valley winemaker, Ricky Evans. Sourcing small parcels only, Ricky works with care and minimal intervention to produce an honest and clear snapshot of each individual vineyard.
Notes from the winery….
This wine is from Tasmania’s Tamar Valley (TMV). Beginning just south of Launceston the valley winds 50km north to its meeting point with the powerful Bass Strait. Produced from different sites, our intent with this wine is to reflect what we believe are the standout characteristics of the Tamar Valley sub region. Juicy and vibrant, when picked at the right time TMV pinot noir expresses red fruits and spice. There is softness within its warm heart, it leaves you with a trail of freshness and closes with strawberry seed-like tannin.Three Wishes, Waverley, Jinglers Creek, Evandale Estate, Fishook and Woodlawn Park all contributed here, little parcels of fruit that span pretty much the whole valley. That makes this the most expansive version of TMV produced thus far. Patches from my own four sites joined forces with a couple of growers to paint my version of how I see this part of the world. I had heaps of little ferments, and kept clones separate within vineyards. There were different levels of bunchiness, ripeness, skin contact and lees work. 2020 was a tricky vintage across the state, especially in the Tamar. Perhaps this is a prettier, lighter expression than usual, but in the end it's just where I want it to be.
- 2020 Two Tonne EST Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Stelvin
Two Tonne has been produced since 2013 by local Tamar Valley winemaker, Ricky Evans. Sourcing small parcels only, Ricky works with care and minimal intervention to produce an honest and clear snapshot of each individual vineyard.
Notes from the winemaker…
Our EST (east) pinot noir is produced from different sites above and below the Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania’s east coast. Together, these sites typify what makes this sub region so exciting. The rain shadow the vineyards sit in creates a warm and dry climate, moderated by its companion, the Tasman Sea. When picked on time, pinot noir from the Freycinet Coast displays a more structured style, it is bold & brave. This dovetails into a generous mid palate with graphite-like tannin structure.
This is from Maclean Bay (Bicheno) and Blackwood Estate (Cranbook)—two sites, one above the Freycinet Peninsula and one below. There were a few different picks here, firstly out of Cranbrook—it's warmer down there, hard dolerite soils with ironstone gravel sitting on top. Secondly, by a distance, Bicheno is directly influenced by the ocean and unprotected from the northerly breeze. This one takes a while and is basically the last parcel through the gates each year. Simple winemaking plays here, mostly destemmed ferments with a couple of small proper bunchy ones for the spice on top. -
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2019 Two Tonne TMV Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$33. 99Bottle$407.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2020-2023)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinBright dark red colour with black tinged edges and a luminous red purple hue. Freshly crushed ripe cherry, strawberry and raspberry scents married to violets blossom from the glass with lightly earthed clove and fresh herb notes ensuing. The Beaujolais styled palate serves up a delicious combination of juicy cherry, raspberry and strawberry fruits with elements of light earth, clove, infusions of fresh herbs and spice vying for attention in the background. Bright fresh finish with polished tannins and a long vibrant aftertaste.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 90
2021 Underground Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2022-2024)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red in colour with black shaded edges and a light red hue. Spicy cherry and rhubarb scents are married to dried herbs and earth. Light in body, bright acidity underpins red cherry and strawberry fruits with some fresh herb and delicate spicy earth characters also present. Polished tannins with a slightly tangy conclusion.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 90
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Undivided Pinot NoirFRANCE$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinA ripe, spicy Pinot that carries medium bodied weight and a supple feel.
Dark red in colour with black toned edges and a dark red hue. Ripe black cherry, dark plum and anise aromas mix with spicy vanillin oak and earthy dried herb notes. Fleshy black cherry and anise flavours carry good weight across the palate with vanillin spice and earth accents lying underneath. Supple mouthfeel with polished tannins and a ripe, spicy finish of medium length.
Drink over the next 1-2 years,
Alc. 12.5% -
- 94
2018 Up The Mountain Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2019-2023)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with a light red hue. Fragrant aromas of dark cherries and strawberries infused with dried herbs are followed by some clove, meaty characters, earthy forest floor and spice. Soft pillowy feel with ripe dark cherry, rhubarb and strawberry flavours to the fore overlaying dried herbs, forest floor, a touch of stalk and spice. Velvet smooth tannins and excellent power with a long moreish aftertaste.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 97
2021 Valli Waitaki Vineyard Pinot NoirNorth Otago, NEW ZEALAND$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinWinemaker Grant Taylor is a pioneer of the Otago region and has been crafting wines since 1993 when there were only 20 hectares planted. Established in 1998 and named after Grant’s Great-Great Grandfather, Giuseppe Valli, who immigrated to New Zealand from an Italian winemaking background, Valli has established itself as one of the regions leading wineries and has won numerous international awards.
Rich, concentrated and dangerously seductive this is a superb North Otago Pinot.
Matured for 11 months in 29% new French oak. Deep dark red core with black shaded edges and a dark red hue. Engulfing the nostrils are intense dark cherry, anise and dark plum scents with some dried herb, earth, smoked meat, brambly cedar and spice notes also chiming in. Rich, powerful and fleshy textured the mid weighted palate is saturated with juicy dark to black cherry, dark plum and anise flavours. Lying underneath and lending further complexity are some ripe strawberry, scorched earth, dried herb, meaty elements, brambly cedar and spice. Supple in its feel it has beautifully polished tannins and concludes with a long expansive finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14% -
- 95
- 94
2020 Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinFermented with 22% whole bunch fruit and matured in French oak (32% new) for a period of 11 months. Slightly hazy dark red colour with black shaded edges and a light brick red hue. Alluring violet, red cherry, dried clove and winter strawberry scents blossom out of the glass followed by some smoked meat, forest floor and sappy cedar notes. Light, airy and fresh in its feel the palate is layered with savoury red cherry, rhubarb, red strawberry and dried clove flavours which overlay a forest floor, brambly cedar and spice back drop. Finishes with a nicely balanced freshness, polished tannins and a long complex aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13%
Other Reviews....
A pretty nose of red cherries, spiced strawberries, hibiscus tea and crushed thyme. Medium-bodied with silky, structured tannins. Juicy. Lots of attractive red fruit and floral notes bending onto the palate. Nutmeg and sweet paprika, too. Mushroom complexity comes at the finish. Nicely composed. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
94 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 94
- 97
2020 Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2029-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinThis elegant, structured Pinot Noir was fermented with 22% whole bunch fruit and matured in French oak (29% new) for a period of 11 months. Deep dark red black shaded colour with a dark red hue. Perfumed violet like top notes are intermeshed with aromas of red to dark cherries, anise and strawberries infused with spicy dried herbs, forest floor and dusty cedar. Light to medium weight and spicy the palate is generously fruited with dark cherries and strawberries which are framed by slightly dryish, rigid tannins and vibrant acidity. Anise, dried herb and forest floor elements are also evident. Taut, focused feel concluding with an energetic elegance. Trophy for best in show at Decanter World Wine Awards 2022.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%
Other Reviews….
Bannockburn sits at the heart of one of the wine world's most promising Pinot locations outside Burgundy, and this dark, fragrant yet intensely fruited wine drew our judges' attention not just for the panache of its fruit but also for its intensity, drive, structure and resonance. The blackberry and plum fruits you can find on the nose are almost brooding, and a far cry from the sometimes simple appeal of the region's pioneer Pinots. On the palate it is mouth-filling and deep with high-resolution focus; the acidity is neither trivial nor shrill; the tannins are soft, but carry a useful flavour print. It's after you swallow, though, that you come to appreciate its sinew and ligament, its inner seriousness and its sheer completeness. Very fine Pinot by any measure.
97 points
Decanter World Wine Awards 2022 -
- 95
- 96
- 95
2020 Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinFermented with 40% whole bunch fruit and matured in French oak (29% new) for a period of 11.5 months. Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Nosing offers up complex aromatics of red to dark cherries and strawberries intertwined with hints of rhubarb, dried herbs, subtle anise and spicy cedar. Light to medium bodied and carrying a fleshy textural feel, the palate is generously endowed with red to dark cherry, spicy strawberry and rhubarb fruits. Notions of anise, dried herbs, forest floor and earthy cedar are also apparent. Excellent power with polished tannins, good freshness and a long savoury aftertaste.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%
Other Reviews….
A perfumed nose of red cherries, ripe strawberries, grated nutmeg, bark and orange peel. Medium- to full-bodied with silky, tightly-knit tannins. Succulent and generous on the palate with a wash of red and black fruit and berries oscillating and evolving through to a long finish. Oolong and chicory root add complexity and depth. Structured to age. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
95 points
JamesSuckling.com
Lovely seamless and pure aromas with ripe plum, black cherry and blueberry. Plush palate with integrated ripe and rounded tannins. Plush and luxurious.
96 points
Decanter World Wine Awards 2022 -
- 88
2021 Vaucher Pere & Fils Pinot Noir CollectionVin de France, FRANCE$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2022-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinDark red in colour with black tinged edges and a bright red hue. Aromas of red cherry infused with dried clove mix with earth and spicy rhubarb notes. Light in body, cherry and dried clove flavours overlay rhubarb and spicy vanilla characters. Slightly dryish finish with grainy tannins, brisk acidity and a spicy dried clove like laced aftertaste.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 93
2022 Ventisquero Reserva Pinot NoirValle de Casablanca, CHILE$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinFounded in the late 1990’s Viña Ventisquero has quickly gone on to become one of the countries top wine producers. With a winery based in the coastal Maipo Valley the estate sources grapes from the prestigious Casablanca, Leyda, Colchagua and Apalta Valley regions.
Deep dark red core with black shaded edges and a dark red hue. Spicy cherry, rhubarb and dried clove aromas mix with earth and cedar notes. Delicious dark cherry and strawberry fruits infused with dried herbs overlay a brambly cedar, forest floor and spice back drop. Supple mouth feel with silky tannins and a long, deliciously fruited conclusion.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
2020 Ventisquero Reserva Pinot NoirValle de Casablanca, CHILE$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2022-2025)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinDark red in colour with black shaded edges and a dark red hue. Violet and dark cherry top notes are followed by some strawberry, earth and spicy dried herb notes. Round and supple in the mouth, delicious ripe cherry and strawberry fruits unfold across the palate with dried herb and forest floor characters sitting underneath. Spicy finish with polished tannins and a savoury medium length aftertaste.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 91
2019 Ventisquero Reserva Pinot NoirValle de Casablanca, CHILE$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2021-2025)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red core with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Exhibiting a perfumed like lift scents of violets, red cherries and winter strawberries are interwoven with dried herbs, light forest floor and spicy cedar. Light in body the palate has an elegant flavour profile of cherries and strawberries infused with dried herbs. Earthy forest floor like characters and spicy cedar also chime in. Finishes with good freshness, slightly dryish tannins and a spicy medium length aftertaste.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 92
2018 Ventisquero Reserva Pinot NoirValle de Casablanca, CHILE$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2020-2023)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a bright dark red hue. Intense ripe plum and dark cherry aromas mix with strawberry, anise, subtle dried herb notes and spice. Delicious dark cherry and strawberry fruits overlaid with dried herbs are followed by forest floor and spice nuances. Slightly dryish finish with juicy acidity and fine grained tannins leading into a savoury aftertaste.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 95
- 94
- Organic
2022 Vignerons Schmolzer & Brown Brunnen Pinot NoirBeechworth, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: Diam CorkVignerons Schmölzer & Brown is the partnership of winemaker-viticulturist Tessa Brown and architect Jeremy Schmölzer, crafting wines from high-altitude vineyards in Beechworth and the King Valley. Their estate vineyard, Thorley, sits over 700m ASL and is farmed with organic practices in all but the most challenging years. Working with minimal intervention, they focus on purity, balance, and drinkability. The range includes single-site wines from Thorley, Brunnen, and Obstgarten, as well as their approachable Prêt-à series.
From a tiny, organically farmed vineyard directly opposite their Thorley site, Vignerons Schmolzer & Brown craft one of Beechworth’s most elegant Pinots. Planted in 1994 on their own roots, the vines thrive without irrigation in cold-climate conditions, producing fruit of purity and finesse. The 2022 is fragrant with red fruits, subtle earth and spice, and a fine, graceful structure—an exceptional regional example for lovers of quality Pinot Noir.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews....
Beechworth pinot noir shines in a tough, cool and wet vintage – impressive! Structure is a prime feature here together with cool-climate pinot fruit, racy and super bright, jumping in cherry and red berries, bramble, earth and autumnal, leafy aromatics. Leads to a deep walk in the woods with earth and undergrowth, dried herbs, red berries and briar before a long glide to the finish, wrapped tightly in fine tannin and brisk acid crunch. Drink 2024-2032.
95 Points
Jeni Port - Halliday's Australian Wine CompanionTessa says “100% whole berry, all wild ferments of around 20-25 days duration. Mlf and ageing in barrique, one in four being new. 18 months in oak before racking and bottling“
A lovely lift of raspberry coulis draws you in, providing prettiness from the outset, followed by brown spice, decaying leaf, and earthy notes that keep you there. Red fruit notes emerge with air – red cherry liqueur, cranberry, red liquorice. There’s a savoury salty kick through it all adding interest and intrigue. Focused and pure, fine and complex. The palate is lithe and lifted with a good vein of immediate chalky tannins and a wash of acidity carrying the red fruits long. Cherry, cranberry, earth and subtle spice. A fine boned Pinot Noir with gentle but significant length.
94 Points
Tom Kline - WinePilot.com -
- 93
2017 Villa Wolf Pinot NoirPfalz, GERMANY$21. 99Bottle$263.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2020-2023)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinAged for 12 months in used barriques. Semi translucent dark red core with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Emanating from the glass are fragrant scents of violets, fresh herbs and ripe red cherries followed by faint earth and spice notes. Light and supple in its texture, the palate is layered with ripe cherry fruit that shows good drive over a background of light wood smoke, forest floor, fresh herbs and spice. Velvety tannins with a savoury medium to long aftertaste that has a ripe, generous feel.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13%
-
- 95
- Nicks Import
2017 Vina Cobos Bramare Valle de Uco Pinot NoirMendoza, ARGENTINA$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2019-2024)ABV: 14.3%Closure: CorkDeep dark red core with black tinged edgings and a light red hue. Uplifted ripe dark cherry, plum and strawberry aromas overlay forest floor, fresh herb and spicy cedar notes. Rich, ripe and possessing good weight, delicious flavours of dark cherries, plum and strawberries are wrapped up in a supple mouthfeel. Infusions of fresh herbs, subtle forest floor and spicy cedar characters ensue. Excellent power and silky smooth tannins with a long juicy dark fruited aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.3% - 2019 Vincent Dancer Pommard Les PerrieresBurgundy, FRANCE$130. 00Bottle$1560.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Vincent Dancer runs a tiny operation based in chassagne-Montrachet where he crafts his wines from five hectares of well-situated vineyards. The winery is small even by the standards of Burgundy, and despite Dancer’s reclusive nature, the wines are well known to a small circle of restaurateurs and wine-lovers who reliably take their miniscule allocation year after year. Vincent is quietly individualistic, creating his own lean, bright, and savory style of wines, trusting his instincts and experience to make the best possible wine in his own way.
Driving south on the D974, Les Perrières sits under the famed Clos des Epeneaux and is the first Pommard vineyard on your right after you leave the commune of Beaune. Dancer farms almost one hectare of vines, planted in 2012. He works with very low yields to achieve the textural richness and seduction you’ll find here. It’s a darker, inkier wine than his Beaune bottlings, but it still offers lovely finesse and purity.
Other Reviews....
A more deeply pitched and equally fresh nose features aromas of plum, warm earth and dark cherry. There is excellent punch to the sleekly muscular middle weight flavors that possess impressive volume and focused power on the youthfully austere finish. This is an excellent Pommard villages that is worth considering. Drink 2026+.
89-92 points
Allen Meadows - Burghound - 2019 Vincent Dancer Beaune Les Montrevenots Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$130. 00Bottle$1560.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: Cork
Vincent Dancer runs a tiny operation based in chassagne-Montrachet where he crafts his wines from five hectares of well-situated vineyards. The winery is small even by the standards of Burgundy, and despite Dancer’s reclusive nature, the wines are well known to a small circle of restaurateurs and wine-lovers who reliably take their miniscule allocation year after year. Vincent is quietly individualistic, creating his own lean, bright, and savory style of wines, trusting his instincts and experience to make the best possible wine in his own way.
A very high-altitude, rocky site, Les Montrevenots is at the top of the hill on the Pommard boundary above Clos des Mouches. It’s a south-facing slope, which to some extent mitigates the vineyard’s altitude. Dancer’s parcel was planted in 1996. The white marl, limestone-rich soils here (quite different to the greater clay components of Dancer’s other red sites) tend to bring more perfume, raciness and powdery, fine structure.
Other Reviews....
Very fresh aromas are comprised by notes of red and dark berries that exhibit lovely spice wisps along with a background trace of earth. There is fine vibrancy to the intense, well-detailed flavors that terminate in a mildly austere bitter cherry suffused finish. As is usually the case, this is relatively fine and a wine that should drink reasonably well young if desired. Drink 2025+.
90-92 points
Allen Meadows - Burghound -
- 91
2017 Vincent Dancer Les Montrevenots Beaune Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2020-2025)ABV: 13%Closure: CorkBright dark red at its core with subtle tinges of black around the edges and a light purple red hue. Quite pretty and floral, aromas of ripe red cherries and wild strawberries are married to scorched earth, a subtle meatiness and fresh herb notes. Light in body and very elegant, the palate has bright, slightly tart red fruits which intermingle with subtle earth, fresh herb and light spicy cedar nuances. Lots of freshness to the finish with finely grained tannins and a medium length aftertaste.
Drink over a next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 95
2018 Vinea Marson Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2020-2024)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkThe inspiration behind Vinea Marson stems from winemaker Mario Marson’s Italian winemaking heritage – stretching back some four generations. Mario’s grandfather grew and bottled Friulano, Cabernet and Merlot and his great-grandfather, Giuseppe Zaghet, was chief winemaker for the local landowner, the padrone of Villa Brunetta at Prata di Pordenone, based in Friuli, in the early twentieth century. This was transferred to suburban Melbourne where his migrant father, Giuseppe, planted rows of vines in their backyard to bring wine to the dinner table each night. Mario continued this tradition both as viticulturalist and winemaker for some twenty years in the Yarra Valley – mostly at Mount Mary Estate. In 2000, Mario and his wife Helen established an eight-hectare vineyard in the foothills of the Mount Camel Range at Heathcote bringing the traditions of the old world to winemaking in the new. Today, Mario works alongside his daughter Madeleine.
A gorgeous Yarra Valley Pinot.
Semi translucent bright dark red colour with subtle black tinges to the edges and a light red hue. Perfumed like aromatics of violets, ripe red cherries, strawberries and fresh herbs intermingle with forest floor and spicy cedar. Moreish flavours of ripe red cherries and strawberries infused with fresh herbs have a beautiful supple textural feel overlaying forest floor, a subtle meatiness and spicy cedar nuances. Excellent power wave with very polished tannins and ample freshness. Finishes long and savoury.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
2017 Vinea Marson Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2018-2023)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkSemi translucent vibrant red colour with a light crimson hue. Fragrant violet aromas intermix with bright red cherry, fresh raspberries and strawberry scents followed by hints of dried herbs, a faint meatiness and spice. Lightly weighted the palate sports delicious flavours of lightly spiced red cherries and strawberries over subtle fresh herb infusions, traces of earth and spice. Bright balanced acidity and finely grained tannins. Savoury conclusion of bright red cherries and strawberries, fresh herbs, subtle earth and spice.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
2021 Vinelea Pinot NoirBeechworth, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2022-2027)ABV: 14.1%Closure: Diam CorkAged in 50% new French oak barrels for 12 months. Deep dark red black colour with a dark red purple hue. Perfumed like aromatics of violet, black cherry and ripe strawberry mix with vanillin cedar, light scorched earth and spicy fresh herb notes. Rich, juicy black fruits are intertwined with a twist of sour cherries. Lively acidity with some vanillin earth, dried herb and spice elements lying underneath. Excellent power and weight with polished yet sturdy tannins and a ripe spicy aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.1% -
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Vino Vagabond Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinDelicious, supple entrance with a gentle tang to the savoury finish.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Fragrant aromas of violet, cherry, strawberry and rhubarb infused with clove blossom from the glass with some bramble, forest floor and spice notes also evident. Delicious dark cherry, strawberry and rhubarb flavours make a supple entrance over a back drop of spicy dried herb, bramble and forest floor characters. Lively acidity and fine grained tannins with a gentle tang to the savoury finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 83
2013 Vue on Halcyon Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesABV: 11.75%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red core with a brick red hue. Delicate red to sour cherry, herbaceous stalk, green bean, light earth and spice notes emerge on the nose. Very elegant and light, the palate shows little improvement on the nose, flavours of cherry, light stalky green bean characters, subtle earth and spice are apparent. Dryish finish with fresh acidity, fine grained tannins and a modest aftertaste of lingering green bean characters. Pass.
Alc. 11.75% -
- 87
2016 Vue on Halcyon Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2019-2021)ABV: 11.75%Closure: StelvinTranslucent red to brick red colour. Scents of red cherries, forest floor and light sour cherries are followed by dried herbs and spice. Subtle cherry and winter strawberry flavours infused with dried herbs overlay stalky cedar characters and spice. Lively finish with fine grained tannins. Modest power and aftertaste.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 11.75% -
- 96
- 96
- 95
- Reduced
2023 Wantirna Estate Lily Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $110.00$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 13.6%Closure: Stelvin2025 marks 62 years since the first vines were planted at Wantirna Estate, established in 1963 on an east-facing slope in Melbourne's southeastern outskirts. Once a mix of orchards, bush, and grasslands, the vineyard thrives today under the care of Maryann, Reg's daughter, though Reg remains actively involved. The wines, named after his four grandchildren, feature labels illustrated by Michael Leunig, reflecting each grandchild's personality, a heartfelt touch to this family-run estate.
The vineyard's three distinct Pinot Noir blocks, covering just ten acres, are hand-harvested separately, often with up to two weeks between harvest dates. The mature block, with vines from the early 1970s, contributes savory tones and fine tannins. The Front block adds spice, while the Fruit Tree block offers generous fruitiness. Blended together, these components create the complex Pinot Noir style Wantirna Estate is renowned for.
Other Reviews....
A deep and brightly coloured crimson purple. Both to look at and smell, this is a concentrated and complex Wantirna pinot that's going to need some time. Aromas of black cherry, damson plum and dried red rose petals lead onto the palate, which is densely packed, structured and very long. Have it with food now, for sure, but those who still have some five to ten years from now will be very well rewarded. Drink 2026-2035.
96+ points
Philip Rich - James Halliday's Wine CompanionI visited Wantirna Estate around this time last year, and didn’t taste any wine, rather we had tea and biscuits on the porch. Lovely. It’s a vineyard as a garden, if you take my meaning, The place has a sense of intimacy and it’s a world away from many larger producers. 130 dozen produced using very light weight bottles at that. Yay!
Raspberry, red cherry, mint, cedar, pencils and spice, something of a potpourri perfume too. It’s medium-bodied, all red fruits, a little spicy and autumnal, fresh raspberry crunch to acidity, with a firmness to tannin that offers grainy grip, finishing a little sappy with lively acidity, savoury flavours, and excellent length. Oak still shows a little too much as at now, but this is a strong release, and I like the ‘mineral’ character it offers too. Drink 2027-2034+.
95 points
Gary Walsh - The Wine FrontThe 2023 Lily Pinot Noir leads with cherry and cranberry, moss and tobacco, with layers of damp earth and exotic spice. This is beautiful. In the mouth, the wine is silky, with fine, pliable tannins that shape the course of the fruit across the tongue. The acidity is woven gently throughout and offers a delicacy and laciness that I find highly attractive. This is such a gorgeous wine. 13.6% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2025-2038.
96 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate -
- 95
2022 Wantirna Estate Lily Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$105. 00Bottle$1260.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: Stelvin2024 marks 61 years since the first vines were planted at Wantirna Estate, established in 1963 on an east-facing slope in Melbourne's southeastern outskirts. Once a mix of orchards, bush, and grasslands, the vineyard thrives today under the care of Maryann, Reg's daughter, though Reg remains actively involved. The wines, named after his four grandchildren, feature labels illustrated by Michael Leunig, reflecting each grandchild's personality—a heartfelt touch to this family-run estate.
The vineyard's three distinct Pinot Noir blocks, covering just ten acres, are hand-harvested separately, often with up to two weeks between harvest dates. The mature block, with vines from the early 1970s, contributes savory tones and fine tannins. The Front block adds spice, while the Fruit Tree block offers generous fruitiness. Blended together, these components create the complex Pinot Noir style Wantirna Estate is renowned for.Other Reviews....
I most often think the Pinot Noir is the weakest link in the Wantirna wines, though this wine gives me pause. This is not your fine Upper Yarra Pinot style, but it has something about it.
This is a very interesting wine, and really quite engaging. Red fruits, orange peel, spice, red capsicum, rose oil, with some cedar oak in tow. It’s perhaps a little deeper and more concentrated than is usual, has quite some amaro character in the mix, strawberry and raspberry, poached rhubarb, a little bit earthy, not least in the tannin department, and offers a bold finish of excellent length. Charismatic and maybe even idiosyncratic, but yes, it’s very good. Drink 2025 - 2034+
95 Points
Gary Walsh - The Wine Front -
- 94
2021 Wantirna Estate Lily Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinOther Reviews....
Poached strawberry, cherry, a musky and rosy perfume, spicy woody top notes, slightly bloody/earthy too. It’s medium-bodied, but it’s also a firm and savoury wine, a little orange peel in with cedar and rhubarb, and I like the way the tannin is etched through – you can really feel it – and there’s a firm toasty finish of excellent length. It’s typical house/vineyard style here, though maybe a little more finely wrought than is usual. Very good. A few more years cellaring would be ideal. Drink 2024 - 2034+
94+ Points
Gary Walsh - The Wine Front -
- 93
2020 Wantirna Estate Lily Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: StelvinOther Reviews....
Great to see the Wantirna Estate wines once again and generously sent to GW and me in a small yield year. Fantastic and unique wines.
Distinctly fine boned expression here. There’s bright red cherry characters, some smoky paprika elements and clove-cinnamon oak flavours, drawing into a woody, dried herb finish. Light, tense, distinctly dry and chewy. Fine, pumice-stone tannin works well. The pinosity is different here, not the silky, concentrated and fine draw expected, but there’s merit in this expression and its interesting to see how this release works. Out of the box in a way, but worthy. Drink 2022-2030.
93 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front (September 2022) -
- 95
2018 Wantirna Estate Lily Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$76. 99Bottle$923.88 DozenCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Nosing offers up hints of violets which sit alongside red to dark cherry fruits, subtle dried herbs, forest floor, a subtle meatiness and spicy cedar. Stepping the intensity the palate possesses an expansive flavour profile of dark cherries, ripe strawberries and anise which melds into toasty cedar, dried herbs, forest floor and spice characters. Very supple with an outstanding power wave and good freshness on the finish, polished tannins leading into a long savoury aftertaste blessed with an abundance of red to dark fruits.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%
Other Reviews….
Maryann Egan, who I’ve met a few times now, is one of the better people in the world of wine. Not to say that makes a difference to what’s in the bottle, though at whiles I like to dream that good character could perhaps be osmotic…
Cherry cola, creamy spicy oak, dried mint. Medium bodied, lovely fine silty tannin provides traction, even acidity, poached spiced strawberries, shines on the finish with a pretty perfume and dried herb, and carries long. It’s a light wine of substance, if that makes sense. Easy to like. Drink 2019-2027.
93 points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front -
- 95
2021 Warramate Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light crimson red hue. The nose has a perfumed allure to it offering up a mix of violet, red to dark cherry and strawberry scents followed by hints of anise, forest floor and spicy cedar. Delicious spicy red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits carry a supple feel with notions of anise, forest floor and infusions of fresh herbs also chiming in. Very expansive and powerful with silky smooth tannins. Long seductive conclusion.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%
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.
















































