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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2023 Indigo Vineyard Pinot NoirBeechworth, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2026-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA savoury, red fruited Pinot that has a gentle meaty feel to it.
Semi translucent dark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Nosing offers up violet, red to dark cherry and rhubarb aromas which intermingle with bramble, forest floor and spicy dried herb notes. The savoury palate is detailed with red cherry and rhubarb fruits which meld into a dried herb, bramble, forest floor and spicy cedar back drop. Fine grained tannins with fresh underlying acidity and a medium to long finish that has a gentle meaty feel to it.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
A wine to challenge your patience and discipline. Drink now and a world of delicious pinot fruit opens up, immediate and alive in red cherry, cranberry, bright peppery spice, a pinch of dried flowers and a dash of freshly dried herbs and savoury tilled earth. Leave a little longer and possibilities arise with greater flavour development. The potential is there. Drink by 2030.
93 Points
Jeni Port - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion - 2024 Irrewarra Pinot NoirWestern District, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 14%Closure: Diam Cork
Located in Victoria's Western District, about 150km south-west of Melbourne, Irrewarra is a distinctive vineyard surrounded by volcanic plains and inland lakes. Exposed to the elements, the site benefits from high natural rainfall, adding to its cool-climate charm. Planted by the Calvert family in 2001, the vineyard features 6 acres of Pinot Noir and 2 acres of Chardonnay, all on own roots. Positioned on a slope overlooking two large lakes, the site expresses remarkable varietal character and complexity. Now under the care of the Farr family, Nick Farr manages the vineyard with the same attention and dedication as his Geelong estate.
Other Reviews...
Spice grip and char then softness, then more tart bright sinewy notes. The nose is petals and perfume, then darker, richer barrel notes. It is a really lovely aroma. Actually, calling it lovely diminishes it somewhat, this is unique, complex and entirely appealing for those looking for something more from a glass of Pinot Noir. There is a different oak profile maybe, something smokier, something more angular. It really works with this wine, even if I’m wrong about the new oak regime. Whatever it is, be it new or just more present, adds a layer to this wine. The Irrewarra only improves with each vintage, it seems, and this is no different. I sat with this for a little while and those spice notes just kept delivering, and each sip or sniff offered something new and delicious.
- Ben Knight - 2023 Irrewarra Pinot NoirWestern District, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$73. 99Bottle$887.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam Cork
Located in Victoria’s Western District, about 150km south-west of Melbourne, Irrewarra is a distinctive vineyard surrounded by volcanic plains and inland lakes. Exposed to the elements, the site benefits from high natural rainfall, adding to its cool-climate charm. Planted by the Calvert family in 2001, the vineyard features 6 acres of Pinot Noir and 2 acres of Chardonnay, all on own roots. Positioned on a slope overlooking two large lakes, the site expresses remarkable varietal character and complexity. Now under the care of the Farr family, Nick Farr manages the vineyard with the same attention and dedication as his Geelong estate.
Other Reviews....
Spice grip and char then softness, then more tart bright sinewy notes. The nose is petals and perfume, then darker, richer barrel notes. It has a really lovely aroma. Actually, calling it lovely diminishes it somewhat, this is unique, complex and entirely appealing for those looking for something more from a glass of Pinot Noir. There is a different oak profile maybe, something smokier, something more angular. It really works with this wine, even if I’m wrong about the new oak regime. Whatever it is, be it new or just more present, adds a layer to this wine. The Irrewarra only improves with each vintage, it seems, and this is no different. I sat with this for a little while and those spice notes just kept delivering, and each sip or sniff offered something new and delicious.
Ben Knight -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 J. Moreau & Fils Les Coches Pinot NoirVin de France, FRANCE$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2025-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA juicy, amply fruited Pinot.
Deep dark red core with black toned edges and a dark red hue. Ripe morello and dried cherry aromas mix with anise, earthy incense and spicy dried herb notes. Juicy morello and dark cherry fruits meld into a ripe strawberry, anise, earthy incense and spicy dried herb back drop. Ripe, gently chewy tannins with a fleshy feel to the amply fruited mid length finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 95
- 95
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2025 Jane Eyre Shoreham Park Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2026-2034)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinLight weight and fresh, this an elegant, savoury Pinot Noir.
Aged in French oak barrels (10% new) with 20% whole bunch inclusion. Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a vibrant crimson red hue. Fragrant aromatics of violet, red to dark cherry, strawberry and anise blossom out of the glass. Some toasty cedar, dried herb, brambly forest floor like notes and spice ensue. Light weight and fresh, the palate is eloquently decorated with red cherry and winter strawberry fruits which are complimented by some rhubarb, bramble, forest floor and spicy cedar elements. Vibrant acidity and fine grained tannins concluding bright, savoury and elegant.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews…….
The same 1990s-planted site and the same winemaking approach: wild ferment with 20% whole bunches, 10% new oak. This is an elegantly framed release from what was a warm year, with an earlier pick yielding finesse and a savoury dimension. It’s open in fragrance, perfumed and lifted with red fruits, but there’s a cooler side, a dusting of spice, a mulchy forest floor and snapped twig element. And there's a linearity, an appealing tension rather than breadth, tannins finely composed, acidity vibrant. This promises to age well. Drink by 2035.
95+ Points
Marcus Ellis - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 96
2025 Jane Eyre Yarra Valley Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2026-2034)ABV: 13.1%Closure: StelvinShowing abundant richness and power, this silky textured Pinot makes for moreish drinking.
Sourced from 30 year old dry grown vines and aged for 10 months in French oak barrels. Red to dark red core with black toned edges and a vibrant red hue. Perfumed nose with wonderfully fragrant violet, dark cherry, strawberry and anise aromas followed by fresh herb, forest floor and spicy cedar notes. Juicy dark cherry, strawberry and anise flavours flow supplely across the palate. Forest floor, brambly cedar, subtle dried herb and spice elements extend across the back half. Showing abundant richness and power, it has silky smooth tannins and a long expansive finish that makes for moreish drinking.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.1% -
- 96
- 96
2024 Jane Eyre Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA wonderfully fresh, pure and powerful Pinot that has a long moreish red fruited finish.
Sourced from vines with an average age of 30 years old with 20% whole bunch inclusion and maturation taking place in French oak puncheons for a period of 10 months.
Semi translucent bright red to dark red colour with black shaded edges and a vibrant crimson red tinged hue. A bouquet of red cherries, violets, strawberries and subtle anise engulfs the nostrils with fresh herb, delicate forest floor and spicy cedar notes also evident. The uber delicious palate is layered with ripe red cherry, strawberry and red liquorice fruits which are both expansive and supple in their flow. Infusions of fresh herbs, forest floor and spicy cedar extend across the back half. Wonderfully fresh, pure and powerful it has velvety tannins and a long moreish red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
From three sites in the north; this was fermented with native yeasts, then aged in French puncheons for 10 months. The Jane Eyre signature of fragrance and clarity is here, wedded with the intensity that Tasmanian pinot can often yield. Dark fruits are joined with the red, with black and red cherries, redcurrant, rosy-pink florals, some warming spices, turned earth and sweetly fresh forest floor note that will no doubt build intriguingly with tertiary development. It’s a wine of poise and detail, the palate supple, textural and effortless. Drink by 2034.
96 Points
Marcus Ellis - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 95
2024 Josef Chromy Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.3%Closure: StelvinRich and supple yet light in its feet with an expansive flavour profile.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a red hue. Gorgeous nose with perfumed aromas of violet, red to dark cherry, strawberry and anise surging out of the glass. Some forest floor, fresh herb and spicy cedar notes follow on. Richly fruited and supple in it’s flow yet light on it’s feet, the palate features expansive flavours of red to dark cherry and wild strawberry over an anise, fresh herb, forest floor and spicy cedar back drop. Excellent power with polished tannins and ample freshness to the long juicy finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.3% -
- 94
2023 Joseph Faiveley Bourgogne Pinot NoirBurgundy, FRANCE$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkAn excellent rendition of village level Burgundy that has a long savoury finish.
Domaine Faiveley is one of the biggest domaines in Burgundy with the fruit for this Bourgogne being sourced mainly from plots situated in Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune and Côte Chalonnaise.
Deep dark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Fragrant red cherry and winter strawberry scents infused with fresh herbs and violets sail through the nostrils complimented by some earth and spicy cedar notes. Delicious red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits are layered across the palate with ample power. Notions of red liquorice, dried herbs, earth and spicy cedar also chime in to lend further interest. Good freshness with finely integrated tannins and a long savoury finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 96
2024 Kate Hill Huon Valley Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$46. 99Bottle$563.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2026-2034)ABV: 12.3%Closure: StelvinA moreish Pinot laden with expansive juicy, red to dark fruits that are both powerful and energetic.
Deep red to dark red core with black toned edges and a vibrant red hue. Perfumed aromas of violet, red to dark cherry, strawberry and anise sail through the nostrils. Some brambly cedar, forest floor and spicy fresh herb notes ensue. Juicy red to dark cherry, strawberry and anise flavours expand across the palate like a peacocks tail with notions of rhubarb, bramble, forest floor, delicate spicy cedar and fresh herb infusions providing additional complexity. Fresh yet supple in it’s flow, it possesses polished tannins and energetic acidity. Boasting superb power and concentration it manages to stay light on its feet. Finishes very long and moreish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.3% -
- 92
2021 Kelley Fox Wines Mirabai Pinot NoirOregon, UNITED STATES$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: CorkSemi translucent bright red colour with a light red hue. Fragrant red cherry and strawberry aromas infused with a mix of violets and fresh herbs are trailed by hints of forest floor and spicy cedar. Light in body with a vibrant yet slippery feel, red cherry and winter strawberry fruits carry plenty of energy over a fresh herb, subtle forest floor and spicy cedar back drop. Fresh acidity and polished tannins with lively red fruits carry a cool tone through the finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
- 93
2024 Kellybrook Edenesque Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinLight and vibrant yet supple with a long, fresh red fruited finish.
Semi translucent red colour with a light red hue. Fragrant red cherry, violet and winter strawberry scents blossom out of the glass followed by some dried herb, brambly cedar and forest floor notes. Light and vibrant yet supple in its body flow across the palate, delicious red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits are featured over a brambly rhubarb, forest floor and spicy cedar back drop. Polished tannins with a long, fresh red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews……
A blend of fruit from the home block at Wonga Park and two different sites in Gladysdale. A light, bright crimson. A perfumed bouquet of light red fruits, floral scents, cinnamon and just a hint of clove. On the palate it's light on its feet and finely structured, with gentle tannins and bright acidity. An elegant and well-priced wine to drink over the next three to four years.
93 Points
Philip Rich - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 95
2024 Kellybrook Single Vineyard Willowlake Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSupple, intense and powerful with a fresh, moreish finish.
Matured in new and used French oak. Semi translucent bright red colour with a light crimson red hue. Attractively scented the nose features violet, red cherry, strawberry and more subtle rhubarb scents followed by hints of brambly cedar, forest floor and spice. Delicious red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits are supplely layered across the palate with terrific intensity and power. Some red liquorice, gentle forest floor, dried herb and spicy cedar elements lie underneath. Polished tannins with a fresh, moreish finish that’s ample in it’s length.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 95
- 95
2024 Kooyong Single Vineyard Estate Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$56. 99Bottle$683.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSavoury and supple with ample richness and an elegant medium to long finish.
Kooyong Estate Pinot Noir comprises fruit from their Meres, Haven, Ferrous and Nord blocks offering an overall expression of the Kooyong vineyard. Partial whole bunch fermented with maturation taking place in French oak barriques (14% new) for a period of 12 months.
Dark red in colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Fragrant violet, dark cherry, strawberry and subtle rhubarb scents sail through the nostrils with plenty of intensity followed by some brambly cedar, dried herb and spice notes. Savoury dark cherry, strawberry and rhubarb fruits carry ample richness in their supple flow across the palate. Brambly dried herb, forest floor and spice elements also chime in. Polished fine grained tannins with an elegant medium to long finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
The adjectives get a real work out with this little beauty, but suffice to say that is one tightly layered, complex, energy-driven, totally delicious youngster. Brings together all the class you might expect from Mornington Peninsula’s signature red grape with a vibrancy that entices. Dusty red cherry, cranberry, leaf, potpourri, rose and gentle spices light up the scent. It’s a most welcoming introduction and, from there, it moves into a beautifully expressive palate lit up in aromatics with a touch of violet and delivered with nicely judged oak. Acidity runs bright through the finish. Drink 2025-2034.
95 Points
Jeni Port – WinePilot.com -
- 93
2024 Kooyong Massale Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinLight, savoury and fresh with an elegant red fruited finish.
Semi translucent dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Fragrant violet, red cherry and strawberry aromas emanate out of the glass followed by whiffs of anise, forest floor and spicy cedar. Light, savoury and fresh, the palate is decorated with red cherry and strawberry fruits which meld into a forest floor, dried herb and spicy cedar back drop. Fine grained tannins with an elegant red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Kuru Kuru Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$42. 99Bottle$515.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2026-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA juicy, medium bodied Pinot with slightly chewy tannins and a very spicy finish.
Dark red in colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Dark cherry, anise and strawberry scents fill the nostrils followed by some toasty cedar, earth and spicy dried herb notes. Rich, juicy dark to black cherry and anise fruits carry ample flesh and medium body weight. Ripe strawberry, toasty cedar and earth elements unfold across the back half. Ripe, slightly chewy tannins with a very spicy finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.5% - 2023 Laurent Roumier Bourgogne Hautes-Cotes-de-Nuits Rouge (375ml)Burgundy, FRANCE$82. 99Bottle$995.88 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: Cork
Laurent Roumier is the grandson of the legendary Georges Roumier and his holdings originate from that grand old estate with more recent additions of 6 hectares in the Hautes Cotes de Nuits being purchased in the 1990s and further purchases in Chambolle-Musigny. His father Alain was the cellar master for Comte de Vogue for nearly 3 decades before taking his portion of the family vineyards to farm for his own family. Wines here appear stylistically very similar to those of Georges with even the same barrels and oak used as his cousins though one notable difference is that Laurent mostly de-stems giving wines that show excellent depth of colour and which are more immediately perfumed and accessible in their youth while still having ample depth and structure to age classically.
The vines are on average 35 years old, and they are farmed traditionally and naturally, with neither fertilizer nor herbicide. Green harvests are carried out in the summer when necessary. All of the vines are harvested by hand. In the cellar, the work is carried out with the same level of precision. The grapes are entirely destemmed the vinified in concrete vats. Alcoholic fermentation lasts around 15 days, with pumping over and punching down every day, and the temperature is checked every day. When it comes to pressing, the team decants the wines for 12 hours in vats and then barrels (50% of which are new for the grand crus and the premier crus, 30% for the villages and 10% for the Bourgogne Hautes-cotes-de-nuits). The elevage lasts 15 to 18 months, with the barrels (mostly Tonnelerie Rousseau) being topped up once a week and racked two or three times during the entire period of elevage.
Bourgogne Hautes-Cotes-de-Nuits comes from the La Poirelotte parcel of vines planted from 1970s through to 2000 located higher above Chambolle village vineyards. No new oak is used for this wine.
- 2023 Laurent Roumier Bourgogne Hautes-Cotes-de-Nuits RougeBurgundy, FRANCE$135. 00Bottle$1620.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: Cork
Laurent Roumier is the grandson of the legendary Georges Roumier and his holdings originate from that grand old estate with more recent additions of 6 hectares in the Hautes Cotes de Nuits being purchased in the 1990s and further purchases in Chambolle-Musigny. His father Alain was the cellar master for Comte de Vogue for nearly 3 decades before taking his portion of the family vineyards to farm for his own family. Wines here appear stylistically very similar to those of Georges with even the same barrels and oak used as his cousins though one notable difference is that Laurent mostly de-stems giving wines that show excellent depth of colour and which are more immediately perfumed and accessible in their youth while still having ample depth and structure to age classically.
The vines are on average 35 years old, and they are farmed traditionally and naturally, with neither fertilizer nor herbicide. Green harvests are carried out in the summer when necessary. All of the vines are harvested by hand. In the cellar, the work is carried out with the same level of precision. The grapes are entirely destemmed the vinified in concrete vats. Alcoholic fermentation lasts around 15 days, with pumping over and punching down every day, and the temperature is checked every day. When it comes to pressing, the team decants the wines for 12 hours in vats and then barrels (50% of which are new for the grand crus and the premier crus, 30% for the villages and 10% for the Bourgogne Hautes-cotes-de-nuits). The elevage lasts 15 to 18 months, with the barrels (mostly Tonnelerie Rousseau) being topped up once a week and racked two or three times during the entire period of elevage.
Bourgogne Hautes-Cotes-de-Nuits comes from the La Poirelotte parcel of vines planted from 1970s through to 2000 located higher above Chambolle village vineyards. No new oak is used for this wine.
- 2023 Laurent Roumier Chambolle-Musigny (375ml)Burgundy, FRANCE$165. 00Bottle$1980.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Laurent Roumier is the grandson of the legendary Georges Roumier and his holdings originate from that grand old estate with more recent additions of 6 hectares in the Hautes Cotes de Nuits being purchased in the 1990s and further purchases in Chambolle-Musigny. His father Alain was the cellar master for Comte de Vogue for nearly 3 decades before taking his portion of the family vineyards to farm for his own family. Wines here appear stylistically very similar to those of Georges with even the same barrels and oak used as his cousins though one notable difference is that Laurent mostly de-stems giving wines that show excellent depth of colour and which are more immediately perfumed and accessible in their youth while still having ample depth and structure to age classically.
The vines are on average 35 years old, and they are farmed traditionally and naturally, with neither fertilizer nor herbicide. Green harvests are carried out in the summer when necessary. All of the vines are harvested by hand. In the cellar, the work is carried out with the same level of precision. The grapes are entirely destemmed the vinified in concrete vats. Alcoholic fermentation lasts around 15 days, with pumping over and punching down every day, and the temperature is checked every day. When it comes to pressing, the team decants the wines for 12 hours in vats and then barrels (50% of which are new for the grand crus and the premier crus, 30% for the villages and 10% for the Bourgogne Hautes-cotes-de-nuits). The elevage lasts 15 to 18 months, with the barrels (mostly Tonnelerie Rousseau) being topped up once a week and racked two or three times during the entire period of elevage.
Laurent's Chambolle-Musigny comes from five parcels of vines planted between the 1960s and 1990s with an average age of 35 years old. Chambolle-Musigny gets its reputation for perfume and elegance and this is textbook Chambolle yet also with admirable intensity and generosity.
- 2023 Laurent Roumier Chambolle-MusignyBurgundy, FRANCE$299. 00Bottle$3588.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Laurent Roumier is the grandson of the legendary Georges Roumier and his holdings originate from that grand old estate with more recent additions of 6 hectares in the Hautes Cotes de Nuits being purchased in the 1990s and further purchases in Chambolle-Musigny. His father Alain was the cellar master for Comte de Vogue for nearly 3 decades before taking his portion of the family vineyards to farm for his own family. Wines here appear stylistically very similar to those of Georges with even the same barrels and oak used as his cousins though one notable difference is that Laurent mostly de-stems giving wines that show excellent depth of colour and which are more immediately perfumed and accessible in their youth while still having ample depth and structure to age classically.
The vines are on average 35 years old, and they are farmed traditionally and naturally, with neither fertilizer nor herbicide. Green harvests are carried out in the summer when necessary. All of the vines are harvested by hand. In the cellar, the work is carried out with the same level of precision. The grapes are entirely destemmed the vinified in concrete vats. Alcoholic fermentation lasts around 15 days, with pumping over and punching down every day, and the temperature is checked every day. When it comes to pressing, the team decants the wines for 12 hours in vats and then barrels (50% of which are new for the grand crus and the premier crus, 30% for the villages and 10% for the Bourgogne Hautes-cotes-de-nuits). The elevage lasts 15 to 18 months, with the barrels (mostly Tonnelerie Rousseau) being topped up once a week and racked two or three times during the entire period of elevage.
Laurent's Chambolle-Musigny comes from five parcels of vines planted between the 1960s and 1990s with an average age of 35 years old. Chambolle-Musigny gets its reputation for perfume and elegance and this is textbook Chambolle yet also with admirable intensity and generosity.
- 2023 Laurent Roumier Clos Vougeot Grand CruBurgundy, FRANCE$699. 00Bottle$8388.00 DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: Cork
Laurent Roumier is the grandson of the legendary Georges Roumier and his holdings originate from that grand old estate with more recent additions of 6 hectares in the Hautes Cotes de Nuits being purchased in the 1990s and further purchases in Chambolle-Musigny. His father Alain was the cellar master for Comte de Vogue for nearly 3 decades before taking his portion of the family vineyards to farm for his own family. Wines here appear stylistically very similar to those of Georges with even the same barrels and oak used as his cousins though one notable difference is that Laurent mostly de-stems giving wines that show excellent depth of colour and which are more immediately perfumed and accessible in their youth while still having ample depth and structure to age classically.
The vines are on average 35 years old, and they are farmed traditionally and naturally, with neither fertilizer nor herbicide. Green harvests are carried out in the summer when necessary. All of the vines are harvested by hand. In the cellar, the work is carried out with the same level of precision. The grapes are entirely destemmed the vinified in concrete vats. Alcoholic fermentation lasts around 15 days, with pumping over and punching down every day, and the temperature is checked every day. When it comes to pressing, the team decants the wines for 12 hours in vats and then barrels (50% of which are new for the grand crus and the premier crus, 30% for the villages and 10% for the Bourgogne Hautes-cotes-de-nuits). The elevage lasts 15 to 18 months, with the barrels (mostly Tonnelerie Rousseau) being topped up once a week and racked two or three times during the entire period of elevage.
Laurent Roumier has a superb holding of just over half a hectare of vines which was replanted in 1975 and is located in the lieu dit of Grand Maupertuis in the higher part of Clos Vougeot bordering on to Grands Echezeaux, not far from Musigny. This parcel was worked en metayage by Georges Roumier from the 1950’s and was transferred to Laurent Roumier from the 1997 vintage. This is a remarkably rich deep and stylish wine that would put some notable Musigny’s to shame.
- 2023 Laurent Roumier Bonnes Mares Grand CruBurgundy, FRANCE$930. 00Bottle$11160.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: Cork
Laurent Roumier is the grandson of the legendary Georges Roumier and his holdings originate from that grand old estate with more recent additions of 6 hectares in the Hautes Cotes de Nuits being purchased in the 1990s and further purchases in Chambolle-Musigny. His father Alain was the cellar master for Comte de Vogue for nearly 3 decades before taking his portion of the family vineyards to farm for his own family. Wines here appear stylistically very similar to those of Georges with even the same barrels and oak used as his cousins though one notable difference is that Laurent mostly de-stems giving wines that show excellent depth of colour and which are more immediately perfumed and accessible in their youth while still having ample depth and structure to age classically.
The vines are on average 35 years old, and they are farmed traditionally and naturally, with neither fertilizer nor herbicide. Green harvests are carried out in the summer when necessary. All of the vines are harvested by hand. In the cellar, the work is carried out with the same level of precision. The grapes are entirely destemmed the vinified in concrete vats. Alcoholic fermentation lasts around 15 days, with pumping over and punching down every day, and the temperature is checked every day. When it comes to pressing, the team decants the wines for 12 hours in vats and then barrels (50% of which are new for the grand crus and the premier crus, 30% for the villages and 10% for the Bourgogne Hautes-cotes-de-nuits). The elevage lasts 15 to 18 months, with the barrels (mostly Tonnelerie Rousseau) being topped up once a week and racked two or three times during the entire period of elevage.
Laurent Roumier's holding of Bonnes Mares is just 0.14 ha of vines planted in 1938, and produces around 3-4 barrels (900 bottles) of this wine in a good year. This holding was inherited from the Georges Roumier estate and is situated in the heart of this Grand cru site with these vines located between the holdings of de Vogue and Frederic Mugnier. Shows great depth of colour with beautiful fine aromas of rose petal, all perfume and finesse, yet very deep and intense on the palate with remarkable persistence and power.
- 2022 Laurent Roumier Bourgogne Hautes-Cotes-de-Nuits RougeBurgundy, FRANCE$130. 00Bottle$1560.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: Cork
Laurent Roumier is the grandson of the legendary Georges Roumier and his holdings originate from that grand old estate with more recent additions of 6 hectares in the Hautes Cotes de Nuits being purchased in the 1990s and further purchases in Chambolle-Musigny. His father Alain was the cellar master for Comte de Vogue for nearly 3 decades before taking his portion of the family vineyards to farm for his own family. Wines here appear stylistically very similar to those of Georges with even the same barrels and oak used as his cousins though one notable difference is that Laurent mostly de-stems giving wines that show excellent depth of colour and which are more immediately perfumed and accessible in their youth while still having ample depth and structure to age classically.
The vines are on average 35 years old, and they are farmed traditionally and naturally, with neither fertilizer nor herbicide. Green harvests are carried out in the summer when necessary. All of the vines are harvested by hand. In the cellar, the work is carried out with the same level of precision. The grapes are entirely destemmed the vinified in concrete vats. Alcoholic fermentation lasts around 15 days, with pumping over and punching down every day, and the temperature is checked every day. When it comes to pressing, the team decants the wines for 12 hours in vats and then barrels (50% of which are new for the grand crus and the premier crus, 30% for the villages and 10% for the Bourgogne Hautes-cotes-de-nuits). The elevage lasts 15 to 18 months, with the barrels (mostly Tonnelerie Rousseau) being topped up once a week and racked two or three times during the entire period of elevage.
Bourgogne Hautes-Cotes-de-Nuits comes from the La Poirelotte parcel of vines planted from 1970s through to 2000 located higher above Chambolle village vineyards. No new oak is used for this wine.
- 2022 Laurent Roumier Chambolle-MusignyBurgundy, FRANCE$295. 00Bottle$3540.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Laurent Roumier is the grandson of the legendary Georges Roumier and his holdings originate from that grand old estate with more recent additions of 6 hectares in the Hautes Cotes de Nuits being purchased in the 1990s and further purchases in Chambolle-Musigny. His father Alain was the cellar master for Comte de Vogue for nearly 3 decades before taking his portion of the family vineyards to farm for his own family. Wines here appear stylistically very similar to those of Georges with even the same barrels and oak used as his cousins though one notable difference is that Laurent mostly de-stems giving wines that show excellent depth of colour and which are more immediately perfumed and accessible in their youth while still having ample depth and structure to age classically.
The vines are on average 35 years old, and they are farmed traditionally and naturally, with neither fertilizer nor herbicide. Green harvests are carried out in the summer when necessary. All of the vines are harvested by hand. In the cellar, the work is carried out with the same level of precision. The grapes are entirely destemmed the vinified in concrete vats. Alcoholic fermentation lasts around 15 days, with pumping over and punching down every day, and the temperature is checked every day. When it comes to pressing, the team decants the wines for 12 hours in vats and then barrels (50% of which are new for the grand crus and the premier crus, 30% for the villages and 10% for the Bourgogne Hautes-cotes-de-nuits). The elevage lasts 15 to 18 months, with the barrels (mostly Tonnelerie Rousseau) being topped up once a week and racked two or three times during the entire period of elevage.
Laurent's Chambolle-Musigny comes from five parcels of vines planted between the 1960s and 1990s with an average age of 35 years old. Chambolle-Musigny gets its reputation for perfume and elegance and this is textbook Chambolle yet also with admirable intensity and generosity.
- 2022 Laurent Roumier Chambolle-Musigny Les Charmes Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$520. 00Bottle$6240.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Laurent Roumier is the grandson of the legendary Georges Roumier and his holdings originate from that grand old estate with more recent additions of 6 hectares in the Hautes Cotes de Nuits being purchased in the 1990s and further purchases in Chambolle-Musigny. His father Alain was the cellar master for Comte de Vogue for nearly 3 decades before taking his portion of the family vineyards to farm for his own family. Wines here appear stylistically very similar to those of Georges with even the same barrels and oak used as his cousins though one notable difference is that Laurent mostly de-stems giving wines that show excellent depth of colour and which are more immediately perfumed and accessible in their youth while still having ample depth and structure to age classically.
The vines are on average 35 years old, and they are farmed traditionally and naturally, with neither fertilizer nor herbicide. Green harvests are carried out in the summer when necessary. All of the vines are harvested by hand. In the cellar, the work is carried out with the same level of precision. The grapes are entirely destemmed the vinified in concrete vats. Alcoholic fermentation lasts around 15 days, with pumping over and punching down every day, and the temperature is checked every day. When it comes to pressing, the team decants the wines for 12 hours in vats and then barrels (50% of which are new for the grand crus and the premier crus, 30% for the villages and 10% for the Bourgogne Hautes-cotes-de-nuits). The elevage lasts 15 to 18 months, with the barrels (mostly Tonnelerie Rousseau) being topped up once a week and racked two or three times during the entire period of elevage.
Les Charmes is located just below the village almost exactly half way between the two Grand Crus of Chambolle-Musigny, Bonnes Mares and Musigny. It's also very close to the Les Amoureuses premier cru vineyard, which explains which this is always one of the most highly favoured sites in the commune.
- 2022 Laurent Roumier Clos Vougeot Grand CruBurgundy, FRANCE$670. 00Bottle$8040.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Laurent Roumier is the grandson of the legendary Georges Roumier and his holdings originate from that grand old estate with more recent additions of 6 hectares in the Hautes Cotes de Nuits being purchased in the 1990s and further purchases in Chambolle-Musigny. His father Alain was the cellar master for Comte de Vogue for nearly 3 decades before taking his portion of the family vineyards to farm for his own family. Wines here appear stylistically very similar to those of Georges with even the same barrels and oak used as his cousins though one notable difference is that Laurent mostly de-stems giving wines that show excellent depth of colour and which are more immediately perfumed and accessible in their youth while still having ample depth and structure to age classically.
The vines are on average 35 years old, and they are farmed traditionally and naturally, with neither fertilizer nor herbicide. Green harvests are carried out in the summer when necessary. All of the vines are harvested by hand. In the cellar, the work is carried out with the same level of precision. The grapes are entirely destemmed the vinified in concrete vats. Alcoholic fermentation lasts around 15 days, with pumping over and punching down every day, and the temperature is checked every day. When it comes to pressing, the team decants the wines for 12 hours in vats and then barrels (50% of which are new for the grand crus and the premier crus, 30% for the villages and 10% for the Bourgogne Hautes-cotes-de-nuits). The elevage lasts 15 to 18 months, with the barrels (mostly Tonnelerie Rousseau) being topped up once a week and racked two or three times during the entire period of elevage.
Laurent Roumier has a superb holding of just over half a hectare of vines which was replanted in 1975 and is located in the lieu dit of Grand Maupertuis in the higher part of Clos Vougeot bordering on to Grands Echezeaux, not far from Musigny. This parcel was worked en metayage by Georges Roumier from the 1950’s and was transferred to Laurent Roumier from the 1997 vintage. This is a remarkably rich deep and stylish wine that would put some notable Musigny’s to shame.
- 2022 Laurent Roumier Bonnes Mares Grand CruBurgundy, FRANCE$899. 00Bottle$10788.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Laurent Roumier is the grandson of the legendary Georges Roumier and his holdings originate from that grand old estate with more recent additions of 6 hectares in the Hautes Cotes de Nuits being purchased in the 1990s and further purchases in Chambolle-Musigny. His father Alain was the cellar master for Comte de Vogue for nearly 3 decades before taking his portion of the family vineyards to farm for his own family. Wines here appear stylistically very similar to those of Georges with even the same barrels and oak used as his cousins though one notable difference is that Laurent mostly de-stems giving wines that show excellent depth of colour and which are more immediately perfumed and accessible in their youth while still having ample depth and structure to age classically.
The vines are on average 35 years old, and they are farmed traditionally and naturally, with neither fertilizer nor herbicide. Green harvests are carried out in the summer when necessary. All of the vines are harvested by hand. In the cellar, the work is carried out with the same level of precision. The grapes are entirely destemmed the vinified in concrete vats. Alcoholic fermentation lasts around 15 days, with pumping over and punching down every day, and the temperature is checked every day. When it comes to pressing, the team decants the wines for 12 hours in vats and then barrels (50% of which are new for the grand crus and the premier crus, 30% for the villages and 10% for the Bourgogne Hautes-cotes-de-nuits). The elevage lasts 15 to 18 months, with the barrels (mostly Tonnelerie Rousseau) being topped up once a week and racked two or three times during the entire period of elevage.
Laurent Roumier's holding of Bonnes Mares is just 0.14 ha of vines planted in 1938, and produces around 3-4 barrels (900 bottles) of this wine in a good year. This holding was inherited from the Georges Roumier estate and is situated in the heart of this Grand cru site with these vines located between the holdings of de Vogue and Frederic Mugnier. Shows great depth of colour with beautiful fine aromas of rose petal, all perfume and finesse, yet very deep and intense on the palate with remarkable persistence and power.
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- 94
- 94
2024 Lethbridge Pinot NoirGeelong, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA savoury Pinot with a prominent dried clove component and long, spicy finish.
Deep dark red black tinged colour with a dark red hue. Nosing shows a strong whole bunch presence with intense dried clove top notes followed by dark cherry, rhubarb, smoky earth, bramble and spice notes. Rich dark cherry, strawberry and rhubarb fruits are married to dried clove, earthy bramble and spice characters. Supple mid palate feel with polished yet structural tannins. Amply powered it finishes long and spicy with a prominent dried clove component.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
Red and black fruits, with a hint of reduction, a mineral undertone, a floral lift and an almost smoky, peaty edge. The palate is mid-weighted with finely tuned tannins and a plush mouthfeel, framed by a fine structure and a savory touch from 50% whole-cluster fermentation. Delicious and balanced. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
94 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Levantine Hill Levant Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinSupple and savoury with a fresh, polished finish.
Semi translucent red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Nosing reveals aromas of rhubarb, cherry and dried herbs followed by some brambly cedar, forest floor and spice notes. Supple and savoury the palate features cherry and rhubarb fruits over bramble, dried herb and spice elements. Refined tannins with a fresh, polished finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 90
2023 Lignier-Michelot Gevrey-Chambertin Cuvee BertinBurgundy, FRANCE$240. 00Bottle$2880.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkThe Lignier family have deep roots in the village of Morey Saint Denis and own 10.5 hectares of some of the very best vineyard sites in this village, along with plots in the two neighbouring villages of Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey Chambertin. In the last 10 years Virgile Lignier has modified his wine-making using whole-bunch vinification ranging from 30-100% depending on the vintage and the vineyard, and he has also reduced the percentage of new oak for maturation with most wines seeing around 30% making its effect seamless in the final wines. They are wines which are often very seductive at a young age which also clearly have the potential for ageing superbly. This very young domaine is now regarded among the very best in the Cotes de Nuits.
Virgile makes his Gevrey villages cuvee mostly from a parcel of .53 ha of vines planted in 1969 in Les Seuvrees which borders on to grand cru Charmes Chambertin close to the Morey St Denis border.
Other Reviews....
An overtly floral-suffused nose features ripe and dark fruit aromas cut with earth and humus wisps. Once again the mouthfeel of the medium-bodied flavors is super-sleek thanks mainly to the fine-grained tannins shaping the energetic and solidly complex finale. This isn't particularly dense but the balance is impeccable. Drink through 2031+.
89-92 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2023 Gevrey-Chambertin Cuvée Bertin is 100% whole cluster this year. The stems are neatly assimilated on the nose with traces of black pepper and freshly tilled loam. The palate is medium-bodied, lively and quite assertive with striking black peppery notes on the entry. It has gentle grip and stems that define the finish, but there is sufficient fruit to soak them up with age. This will be intriguing to watch mature in bottle. Drink 2026-2042.
90-92 points
Neal Martin - VinousFrom Creux Brouillards, Seuvrées and Murots with 100% whole bunch vinification. A crimson edge to the purple colour. The nose is most welcoming, with rich strawberry fruit, evident on the nose, and following through almost decadently on the palate until the whole bunch spice restores some discipline. A lovely wine to enjoy in the relatively near future. Drink from 2028-2032.
90-91 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 89
2023 Lignier-Michelot Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles VignesBurgundy, FRANCE$240. 00Bottle$2880.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkThe Lignier family have deep roots in the village of Morey Saint Denis and own 10.5 hectares of some of the very best vineyard sites in this village, along with plots in the two neighbouring villages of Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey Chambertin. In the last 10 years Virgile Lignier has modified his wine-making using whole-bunch vinification ranging from 30-100% depending on the vintage and the vineyard, and he has also reduced the percentage of new oak for maturation with most wines seeing around 30% making its effect seamless in the final wines. They are wines which are often very seductive at a young age which also clearly have the potential for ageing superbly. This very young domaine is now regarded among the very best in the Cotes de Nuits.
Lignier's Chambolle-Musigny hails from two parcels in Les Drazey and Les Gamaires below Bonnes Mares that were planted in the 1950’s and 1960’s and total 1.48 hectares.
Other Reviews....
Liqueur-like aromas of spicy red berries display a top note of violet. The super-sleek, delicious and vibrant middle weight flavors exude an appealing minerality on the balanced, dusty and youthfully austere finale. This needs to develop more depth but that should reasonably occur if given a chance. Drink through 2030+.
88-91 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2023 Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles Vignes comes from two lieux-dits on clay and more limestone soils. This is quite open and generous on the lightly extracted and finely delineated nose with red berries, touches of incense and sous-bois. The palate is medium-bodied and quite elegant in style with fine tannins and a fleshy, smooth, lightly spiced finish. It's delightful, even if outshone by Lignier's range of Morey Premier Crus. Drink 2026-2038.
89-91 points
Neal Martin - Vinous80% whole bunches. Mid purple, not the deepest. It was necessary to be very careful in the vinification to avoid the wine showing too much Morey character, I am told. The bouquet is light, within the context of Virgile’s wines, quite floral, and with certainly a pleasing finesse across the palate, adequate acidity and very good length. A very accomplished Chambolle. Drink from 2029-2034.
91-92 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 88
2023 Lignier-Michelot Savigny-les-BeauneBurgundy, FRANCE$190. 00Bottle$2280.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkThe Lignier family have deep roots in the village of Morey Saint Denis and own 10.5 hectares of some of the very best vineyard sites in this village, along with plots in the two neighbouring villages of Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey Chambertin. In the last 10 years Virgile Lignier has modified his wine-making using whole-bunch vinification ranging from 30-100% depending on the vintage and the vineyard, and he has also reduced the percentage of new oak for maturation with most wines seeing around 30% making its effect seamless in the final wines. They are wines which are often very seductive at a young age which also clearly have the potential for ageing superbly. This very young domaine is now regarded among the very best in the Cotes de Nuits.
From a parcel in Savigny-les-Beaune named Les Guettotes, this cuvee broadens the domaine's range beyond its Cotes de Nuits stronghold. The vines sit on well-draining soils that contribute to a wine of accessibility while retaining the structure that characterises Virgile's style.
Other Reviews....
A cooler and less expressive nose derives from the dark side of the fruit spectrum while adding subtle spice and floral elements. The supple and vibrant, if not especially dense, flavors exude evident minerality on the bright, delicious and equally refreshing finish that is slightly firmer. Drink through 2027+.
87-89 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2023 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Guettotes comes from purchased fruit. This has a refined, well-defined and focused bouquet with vivid red cherry and crushed strawberry scents. The palate is medium-bodied, clean and fresh, with light tannins and just a touch of white pepper toward the finish. Elegant in style, drink this puppy over the next five or six years. Drink 2026-2033.
88-90 points
Neal Martin - VinousThe second vintage – Virgile destemmed the first year, but used 30% stems this time. Rich purple, a bouquet full of dark red fruit energy, with good tension behind, and the peppery end note from the stems. An attractive village level Savigny, slightly less ripe in this cooler site. Drink from 2028-2032.
89-90 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 87
2020 Lignier-Michelot Gevrey-Chambertin Cuvee BertinBurgundy, FRANCE$215. 00Bottle$2580.00 DozenABV: 13.2%Closure: CorkThe Lignier family have deep roots in the village of Morey Saint Denis and own 10.5 hectares of some of the very best vineyard sites in this village,along with plots in the two neighbouring villages of Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey Chambertin. In the last 10 years Virgile Lignier has modified his wine-making using whole-bunch vinification ranging from 30-100% depending on the vintage and the vineyard, and he has also reduced the percentage of new oak for maturation with most wines seeing around 30% making its effect seamless in the final wines. They are wines which are often very seductive at a young age which also clearly have the potential for ageing superbly. This very young domaine is now regarded among the very best in the Cotes de Nuits.
Virgile makes his Gevrey villages cuvee mostly from a parcel of .53 ha of vines planted in 1969 in Les Seuvrees which borders on to Grand cru Charmes Chambertin close to the Morey St Denis border.
Other Reviews....
Slightly riper aromas of poached plum, cassis, violet and earthy nuances give way to intense, detailed and muscular flavors that display both moderate rusticity and austerity on the solidly complex and lingering finale that is sufficiently structured to repay up to a decade of cellaring. Drink from 2027+.
88-91 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2020 Gevrey-Chambertin "Cuvée Bertin" is 100% whole bunch this year. It has a welcoming bouquet with more red than black fruit, touches of cassis developing in the glass, the oak neatly enmeshed. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy red fruit, good depth, though here, it needs to muster more complexity and tension on the finish. Maybe for this cuvée I prefer the previous vintage. Drink 2024-2034.
87-89 points
Neal Martin - VinousFrom Creux Brouillard and Seuvrées, 100% whole bunch as he has done for 5 years. Medium deep black in colour, lively fruit in the whole bunch style. Very pretty on the palate, not too concentrated, not too hot and with appropriate levels of juice. The finish extends really well. Some strawberry with black pepper at the end.
91-94 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 87
2020 Lignier-Michelot Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles VignesBurgundy, FRANCE$215. 00Bottle$2580.00 DozenABV: 13.2%Closure: CorkThe Lignier family have deep roots in the village of Morey Saint Denis and own 10.5 hectares of some of the very best vineyard sites in this village,along with plots in the two neighbouring villages of Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey Chambertin. In the last 10 years Virgile Lignier has modified his wine-making using whole-bunch vinification ranging from 30-100% depending on the vintage and the vineyard, and he has also reduced the percentage of new oak for maturation with most wines seeing around 30% making its effect seamless in the final wines. They are wines which are often very seductive at a young age which also clearly have the potential for ageing superbly. This very young domaine is now regarded among the very best in the Cotes de Nuits.
Lignier's Chambolle-Musigny hails from two parcels in Les Drazey and Les Gamaires below Bonnes Mares that were planted in the 1950’s and 1960’s and total 1.48 hectares.
Other Reviews....
An overtly floral-suffused nose reflects additional notes of pretty red and dark cherry, raspberry and spiced tea. Here too the middle weight flavors possess a lovely sense of verve while terminating in a chiseled, clean and youthfully austere finish that is very Chambollesque in character. Drink from 2026+.
88-90 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2020 Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles Vignes is matured with a lot of CO2 to protect the wine. This feels quite precocious on the nose with red cherries, kirsch and blood orange aromas, the oak nicely integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, fine acidity, just a touch of sour cherry towards the granular finish. Give this 3-4 years in bottle to fully soften. Drink 2025-2038.
87-89 points
Neal Martin - VinousAnother ludicrously dark purple. Virgile always gets deep colours anyway! 80% whole bunch. The bouquet is more representative of pinot fruit than the Bourgogne, with some redder notes in the mix. Generous but with a mineral acidity which underpins. Fresh red berries are the predominant flavour with a little lick of liquorice to finish. The tannins are well integrated.
90-93 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 90
2020 Lignier-Michelot Morey-Saint-Denis Vieilles VignesBurgundy, FRANCE$215. 00Bottle$2580.00 DozenABV: 13.2%Closure: CorkThe Lignier family have deep roots in the village of Morey Saint Denis and own 10.5 hectares of some of the very best vineyard sites in this village,along with plots in the two neighbouring villages of Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey Chambertin. In the last 10 years Virgile Lignier has modified his wine-making using whole-bunch vinification ranging from 30-100% depending on the vintage and the vineyard, and he has also reduced the percentage of new oak for maturation with most wines seeing around 30% making its effect seamless in the final wines. They are wines which are often very seductive at a young age which also clearly have the potential for ageing superbly. This very young domaine is now regarded among the very best in the Cotes de Nuits.
Lignier's Morey Saint Denis Vieilles Vignes is made from a blend of three vineyards totaling around 1.5 ha with old vines planted 1946, 1948, 1950’s and 1980’s which lie in the middle of the appellation, from Tres Girard, Les Cognees and Bas Chenevery.
Other Reviews....
Here the nose is sufficiently reduced that only discreet floral wisps can be discerned. Once again there is a lovely texture to the vibrant, delineated and utterly delicious medium weight flavors that deliver fine length on the moderately austere finish that is so refreshing that one feels like drinking it. This could use a bit more depth, but more should develop in time. Drink from 2027+.
89-91 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundContaining just over 80% whole bunch, the 2020 Morey-Saint-Denis Vieilles Vignes has a vibrant, fresh and delineated bouquet that gains intensity in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with a mixture of red and black fruit. Grainy tannins, fresh acidity, this has commendable precision on the finish. I envisage this ageing well in bottle. Drink 2026-2038.
90-92 points
Neal Martin - Vinous90% whole bunch, no punching down. Dense black centre to the colour. The nose is a little richer in style, suggesting a thicker texture from this old vine, lower on the slope, bottling. Still fresh enough especially at the finish, with an extra dose of white pepper which the fruit can easily cover. Long plump finish. Some saline notes.
90-93 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 88
2020 Lignier-Michelot Morey-Saint-Denis en la rue de VergyBurgundy, FRANCE$215. 00Bottle$2580.00 DozenABV: 13.2%Closure: CorkThe Lignier family have deep roots in the village of Morey Saint Denis and own 10.5 hectares of some of the very best vineyard sites in this village,along with plots in the two neighbouring villages of Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey Chambertin. In the last 10 years Virgile Lignier has modified his wine-making using whole-bunch vinification ranging from 30-100% depending on the vintage and the vineyard, and he has also reduced the percentage of new oak for maturation with most wines seeing around 30% making its effect seamless in the final wines. They are wines which are often very seductive at a young age which also clearly have the potential for ageing superbly. This very young domaine is now regarded among the very best in the Cotes de Nuits.
This tiny vineyard of en la rue de Vergy is just over three hectares in size and borders directly on to three Grand cru vineyards of Bonnes Mares, Clos de Tart and Clos des Lambrays. Virgile owns 1.9 ha of vines planted 1975 situated quite high on the slope just above Clos de Tart where the limestone is quite close to the surface, similar to the highest vineyards in Chambolle Musigny which it borders on the southern side.
Other Reviews....
A ripe yet decidedly cool and airy nose conveys the pure essence of dark currant with kirsch and rose petal top notes. The refined, intense and equally well-detailed flavors possess a lovely texture along with even more apparent minerality on the youthfully austere, focused and sneaky long finale. Drink from 2025+.
88-90 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2020 Morey-Saint-Denis en la Rue de Vergy is quite high-toned on the nose: macerated black cherries, hints of black olive and light marine scents. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, fine acidity, quite compact towards the finish where I am just looking for a little more depth and flesh. Hopefully, it will fatten out a bit. Drink 2025-2036.
88-90 points
Neal Martin - VinousFractionally less intense colour from its hillside location. Pleasing blackberry and fresh raspberry notes. Clean and pure with a red fruit backbone and a little touch of vanilla from the barrel, but the fruit is in the ascendant with a very pretty tingle from the whole bunch.
91-93 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 95
2020 Lignier-Michelot Clos de la Roche Grand CruBurgundy, FRANCE$999. 00Bottle$11988.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkThe Lignier family have deep roots in the village of Morey Saint Denis and own 10.5 hectares of some of the very best vineyard sites in this village,along with plots in the two neighbouring villages of Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey Chambertin. In the last 10 years Virgile Lignier has modified his wine-making using whole-bunch vinification ranging from 30-100% depending on the vintage and the vineyard, and he has also reduced the percentage of new oak for maturation with most wines seeing around 30% making its effect seamless in the final wines. They are wines which are often very seductive at a young age which also clearly have the potential for ageing superbly. This very young domaine is now regarded among the very best in the Cotes de Nuits.
Other Reviews....
A slightly riper and equally expressive nose offers up its aromas of wild black cherry, poached plum, dark currant compote, violet, earth and a subtle gamy character. The rich, delicious and enveloping broad-shouldered flavors also possess a seductive texture along with notably more power on the sappy, hugely long and compact finish that is more firmly structured. This is also going to need extended patience, but it should be more than worth the wait. Drink from 2035+.
93-95 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2020 Clos-de-la-Roche Grand Cru, which contains 70% whole bunch, has a flamboyant, pure and sensual bouquet with very floral violet and peony aromas complementing the black fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, demonstrating a touch more precision than the Clos Saint-Denis though sharing that saline/marine influence finish. There is just a little more pixelation here. This oozes class. Drink 2025-2065.
95-97 points
Neal Martin - Vinous80% whole bunch. Really intense black colour with a purple rim. The bouquet does not want to speak quite yet. A little bit of wood, a light herbaceous note from the stems which departs rapidly, but the promise of such intensity. Morello cherries? A crackling freshness on the palate, mineral threads, a superb and classic texture, huge weight. Everything is there.
95-98 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy -
- 91
2019 Lignier-Michelot Morey-Saint-Denis Vieilles VignesBurgundy, FRANCE$180. 00Bottle$2160.00 DozenABV: 13.3%Closure: CorkThe Lignier family have deep roots in the village of Morey Saint Denis and own 10.5 hectares of some of the very best vineyard sites in this village,along with plots in the two neighbouring villages of Chambolle Musigny and Gevrey Chambertin. In the last 10 years Virgile Lignier has modified his wine-making using whole-bunch vinification ranging from 30-100% depending on the vintage and the vineyard, and he has also reduced the percentage of new oak for maturation with most wines seeing around 30% making its effect seamless in the final wines. They are wines which are often very seductive at a young age which also clearly have the potential for ageing superbly. This very young domaine is now regarded among the very best in the Cotes de Nuits.
Lignier's Morey Saint Denis Vieilles Vignes is made from a blend of three vineyards totaling around 1.5 ha with old vines planted 1946, 1948, 1950’s and 1980’s which lie in the middle of the appellation, from Tres Girard, Les Cognees and Bas Chenevery.
Other Reviews....
This too is quite aromatically pretty with its ripe and fresh array of floral, spice and black currant that is laced with warm earth hints. There is excellent volume to the caressing yet powerful and concentrated medium-bodied flavors that culminate in a robust, serious and youthfully austere finale that offers even better depth and persistence. Excellent and recommended though note well that this is firmly structured for a Morey villages, so patience required. Drink 2031+.
89-92 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2019 Morey-Saint-Denis Vieilles Vignes contains 80% whole bunches. It has an opulent bouquet that is more towards the heady style, touches of dates and fig filtering through the black fruit but still fresh. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent red berry fruit laced with white pepper and bay leaf, opening up nicely on the finish that cruises along with a sprinkling of white pepper and cumin. Good potential, so long as the aromatics do not become any more extravagant. Drink 2023 - 2036.
91-93 points
Neal Martin - Vinous80% whole bunch. From Très Girard, Les Cognées and Chenevery. Rich deep purple with a much more concentrated fruit on the nose, lifted a little by the whole bunches. Plump dark fruit, spicy notes, fills the mouth out, slightly darker fruit than En la Rue de Vergy and will take a little longer.
91-93 points
Jasper Morris - Inside Burgundy -
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2021 Lingua Franca Avni Pinot NoirWillamette Valley, Oregon, UNITED STATES$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkDeep dark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Aromas of violet, red plum, sour to dark cherry and winter strawberries infused with fresh herbs sail out of the glass. Earth and spicy cedar notes are also evident. Rich spicy dark plum, strawberry and dark cherry fruits decorate the palate. Infusions of fresh herbs, forest floor and cedar lend further interest. A supple feel is counterpointed by lively acidity. Excellent power and concentration. Polished tannins finishing long, fresh and savoury.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
Elegant yet dynamic, this multilayered red reveals detailed cherry and red plum flavors that are laced with savory forest floor and mineral flavors, which build intensity toward polished tannins. Drink now through 2031.
94 Points
WineSpectator.com -
- 93
2024 Warramunda Liv Zak Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinElegant, supplely textured and savoury.
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a light red hue. Fragrant red cherry and rhubarb scents mix with bramble, dried herb, forest floor and spice notes. Making a supple entrance onto the palate are delicious red cherry, strawberry and rhubarb fruits which are welded to a savoury back drop of forest floor, dried herbs and spicy cedar. Polished tannins with a long, elegant conclusion.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
- 93
2023 Lost Farm Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with black toned edges and a vibrant red hue. Expressive dark cherry, strawberry, violet and subtle anise scents mix with fresh herb, forest floor and spicy cedar notes. Delicious red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits are intermeshed with subtle anise, forest floor and spicy cedar characters. Supple yet fresh in its feel it has polished tannins and a savoury red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
Bright ruby with aromas of wild strawberries, red plum and raspberries. Hints of spiced morello cherries, berry flan, wood spice, undergrowth, ginger tea, Chinese barbecue meats and pressed flowers. Purely fruited with a sweep of sour cherry, powdery tannins and an appley acidity promoting cadence and sapidity. Some gamey tones sneak in on the finish, which fades away slowly. Drink by 2030.
93 Points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 90
- 93
2021 Domaine Louis Jadot Chapelle-Chambertin Grand CruBurgundy, FRANCE$730. 00Bottle$8760.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
Here too moderate wood frames the pretty essence of red cherries, earth, crushed fennel and clove. Much like the Clos St. Jacques, there is unusually good richness to the vibrant medium-bodied and sappy flavors that exude a bracing minerality on the bitter pit fruit-inflected finish. This is lovely though it presently lacks top flight depth so I would strongly advise allowing this at least some bottle aging to address that need. Drink through 2033+.
90-93 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThe 2021 Chapelle-Chambertin Grand Cru (Domaine Louis Jadot) is one of the highlights of the range this year. Unfurling in the glass with aromas of cherries, raspberries, pomegranate, spices, rose petals and orange zest, it's full-bodied, fleshy and seamless, with a layered, complete profile. It derives from a parcel planted in 1920–1921, where most of the old vines remain intact.
93-95 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Feb 01, 2023)The 2021 Chapelle-Chambertin Grand Cru has a largely perfumed bouquet with black plum, raspberry and earthy notes, though I am seeking just a little more delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins. A bit of wood needs to be eaten up. It has fine depth, though it does not possess the complexity of the 2020 on the finish. However, it should still give 15-odd years of pleasure. Drink 2025 - 2040.
90-92 points
Neal Martin - Vinous -
- 95
- 92
- 94
2022 Lowestoft Jacoben Single Vineyard Pinot NoirTasmania, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 14%Closure: StelvinLowestoft is one of Tasmania’s most exciting producers, home to some of the region’s oldest vines, planted in 1986 just outside Hobart. Since Kiwi-born Liam McElhinney took the reins in 2020, the estate’s reputation has soared—most notably with La Maison Pinot Noir, which took out the prestigious Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophy in 2023. With mature vines, precision winemaking and growing acclaim, Lowestoft is fast becoming a producer to watch in Tasmanian wine.
Sourced from a south-facing, fog-cooled site north of the Derwent River, the 2022 Jacoben Pinot Noir is fermented with 15% whole bunch and matured in large format French oak (25% new) for 10 months. Expect plump forest fruits, cherry, black tea and woody herbs, carried by juicy acidity and fine, grainy tannins. A brooding yet elegant single-vineyard expression.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews....
Single-vineyard pinot noir from the Lower Derwent Valley. Vibrant ruby with aromas of exotically-spiced red cherry, raspberry and red plum fruits. Hints of dried mountain herbs, citrus blossom, char siu, sandalwood, dried cranberry, amaro, undergrowth and Peking duck. Lithe and sapid on the palate with a touch of sour cherry, pillowy tannins and a spicy, complex finish that flows on for a pleasing amount of time. Drink 2023-2035.
95 Points
Dave Brookes - Halliday's Australian Wine CompanionFragrant with pomegranates, red currants, sage and hints of incense and cola candy. Plenty of voluptuous cherry fruit character, a medium to full body, satiny tannins and an abundantly fruity finish. Screw cap.
92 Points
JamesSuckling.comThe Lowestoft winery has been on a roll in recent years, picking up major awards here and there.
This wine kept unfurling as I sat with it. There are layers and there are nuances. It’s an autumnal Pinot Noir, almost-but-not-quite a bit tomato leafy, with smoky/reductive characters in play too. Its style is pretty clear. But the fruit is ripe, cherried, strawberried, boysenberried even, and cedarwood oak is beautifully integrated, and there’s a minerally crackle to the tannin. In short, it feels and tastes like a class act, and one that will reward cellaring. The tannin profile itself is of note; a conduit of flavour and a magnetic, binding force, like a river or a stream, pushing and pulling as the wine flows. Drink 2026 - 2034+
94+ Points
Campbell Mattinson - The Wine Front -
- 89
- 92
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2021 Luna Blue Rock Pinot NoirMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2026-2027)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinRich juicy black fruits are to the fore with a dry, slightly chalky feel to the mid length finish.
Deep dark red black shaded core with a dark red hue. Sweet dark plum, anise and strawberry jam aromas emerge with some vanillin spice and earth notes also evident. Rich and juicy, black cherry, anise and black plum fruits are to the fore. Toasty vanillin oak, earth and spice elements sit underneath. Sturdy tannin structure with a dry, slightly chalky feel to the mid length finish.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…..
Aromas of black cherries, blue berries and violets followed by cinnamon powder and toast with an underlying rocky minerality. Medium-bodied with refreshing acidity and firm tannins. Precisely framed and polished wine with good vibrancy on both the nose and palate. Sustainable. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
92 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 92
2020 Luna Eclipse Pinot Noir - Last StocksMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinThe 2020 vintage for Luna Eclipse Pinot Noir was highly promising, with successful flowering and a long, dry ripening season, though water stress appeared in some blocks due to the dry conditions. Harvest took place from March 15-30 at Eclipse Vineyard, with fruit primarily from the 1992 Pinot Noir plantings. Fermentation included de-stemming and whole berry preservation, with some whole bunch fermentation. The wine underwent a slow fermentation, followed by 12 months of maturation in French oak (20% new) and 7 months in tank. It was bottled unfined and unfiltered, with minimal sulphur additions.
Other Reviews....
Strawberry pie with some crushed stone and minerality on the palate. Medium to full body. Focused and precise. A little subdued at the finish but it should open up nicely. Drink or hold.
92 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 95
- 96
- Reduced
2023 Mac Forbes Yarra Junction Pinot Noir - Last StocksYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIAReduced from $54.99$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinA light, pretty Pinot that finishes long, elegant and fresh.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a red purple tinged hue. Perfumed aromas of violets and rose petals mix with red to dark cherry, strawberry and anise. Some fresh herb, subtle forest floor and spice notes also chime in. Delicious red cherry and winter strawberry fruits decorate what is a light, pretty palate with infusions of fresh herbs, subtle anise and forest floor lying underneath. Gently supple in its feel, it has polished tannins and finishes long, elegant and fresh.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews….
From a single vineyard planted in 1995. Made with 10–20% whole bunches and three to four weeks on skins before being pressed to seasoned barriques for 11 months. A bright ruby red. A core of red and black fruits laced with blood orange and a little spice. You barely notice the whole bunches. Really fresh and brightly structured on the palate. This will be a cracking wine in another six or so months. Drink by 2032.
96 Points
Philip Rich – James Halliday’s Australian Wine companion -
- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2020 Maddens Rise Pinot NoirYarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12.8%Closure: StelvinJuicy and supple with silken tannins, lively acidity and a savoury finish.
Semi translucent dark red colour with black toned edges and a light brick red tinged hue. Cherry and strawberry scents mix with hints of anise, bramble, dried herbs, forest floor and spice. Juicy cherry and strawberry fruits overlay a subtle rhubarb, bramble, forest floor and spicy dried herb back drop. Supple in it’s feel with silken tannins and lively acidity, it has a savoury finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.8% -
- 94
2023 Main Divide Pinot NoirNorth Canterbury, NEW ZEALAND$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinLight to mid weight with generous spicy dark fruits and a meaty feel.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a dark red hue. Lifted spicy dark cherry and rhubarb aromas are trailed by some smoky cedar, dried herb and brambly earth like notes. Generous spicy dark cherry and strawberry fruits line the light to mid weighted palate with savoury undertones of brambly cedar, scorched earth and dried herbs. Slightly grainy tannins impart a meaty feel across the otherwise fleshy textured, spicy finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews…..
I poured this Main Divide Pinot Noir at the Pinot Palooza event last year and my challenge to allcomers was simple: find me a better value Pinot in the room. No one could and I doubt you will either.
Main Divide is Pegasus Bay's second-tier offering. For those who can't afford the elevated prices of top Pinots, you are in very good hands here. Savoury deluxe in the Pegasus Bay style, it opens with dried leaves, twigs, pine needles, mushroom broth and tilled earth. The dark berry fruit has a slight abrasive, rustic edge entwined with woodsy and earthy spices. A meaty finish washes through - think cured meats and salami adding intrigue and depth. With its interplay of fruit, savoury nuance and length, this is an impressively complete Pinot Noir for the price. Go here.
93 Points
QWineReviews.com
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.















































