2022 Stonier Pinot Noir

Established in 1978 Stonier Vineyards was one of the pioneers on the Mornington Peninsula and has recently returned to being locally owned and run after a period of corporate ownership. The fruit for Stonier Pinot Noir is derived from a selection of estate and leased vineyards, the majority of which sit on the red volcanic basalt between Merricks and Red Hill. The high elevation (200m+) Red Hill vineyards are the primary component of this wine which provides the lovely lifted red fruit profile. Approximately 10% of the fruit was fermented as whole bunches with a 9 month maturation process taking place in French oak puncheons and barriques (10% new).
Semi translucent red to dark red colour with black shaded edges and a light red hue. Showing a delightful perfumed like quality, fragrant aromatics of violet, red cherry and strawberry blossom out of the glass followed by some forest floor, hints of clove, fresh herbs and spice. Fresh and supple in its feel, the light weighted palate is decorated with a power wave of red to dark cherry and strawberry fruits which have plenty of moreish appeal. Subtle anise, infusions of fresh herbs, forest floor and delicate spicy cedar elements are also evident. Polished tannins with a long energetic and expansive finish that’s highly refined and savoury.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Other Reviews....
How lovely to taste this knowing Stonier is back on track with new owners who love the place and a winemaker, as in Justin Purser, keen to ensure a tradition of making distinctive, high-quality wines can now continue unabated. No better way than to start with a lovely pinot sourced from grower vineyards. Upfront cherries and pips, lightly spiced with blood orange and zest with wafts of forest floor and savoury oak. Sweet fruit, supple tannins and uplifting acidity glide across the palate. It tastes so good. Drink by 2032.
95 points
Jane Faulkner - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion