Region and Vineyards
Located in Tasmania’s Coal River Valley, the Tolpuddle Vineyard was planted in 1988 and is known for its exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The 2022 growing season was the coldest in over a decade, with cool conditions that persisted through flowering and ripening, resulting in lower yields and concentrated flavors. These cool temperatures contributed to the region’s hallmark natural acidity, which is reflected in Tolpuddle’s wines as a fresh and vibrant backbone.
The vineyard’s meticulous management practices are aimed at producing fruit with purity and intensity, emphasizing natural acidity and ripe tannins. The Tolpuddle Vineyard’s soils and climate combine to create an environment where Pinot Noir develops a rich flavor profile without sacrificing finesse or elegance, capturing the essence of Tasmanian cool-climate terroir.
Winemaking
Tolpuddle Vineyard Pinot Noir 2022 is crafted to enhance its natural complexity and structure. The hand-picked grapes are a combination of whole berries and whole bunches, which are fermented in open fermenters with gentle pump-overs and plunging to encourage balanced extraction. This method preserves the wine’s bright fruit character and introduces layers of texture.
The wine then matures in French oak barrels for ten months, with approximately one-third new oak. This careful oak treatment integrates seamlessly, adding subtle depth and structure without overwhelming the purity of the fruit. The result is a Pinot Noir that showcases the unique cool-climate characteristics of Tasmania while retaining a rich and complex profile.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep ruby.
- Aroma: Ripe red cherry, smoked meat, and hints of olive, accompanied by cool-season spice.
- Palate: Concentrated with intense fruit flavors, framed by fine but firm tannins. The palate reveals a layered structure with a long, savory finish, balanced by vibrant acidity and spice.
Did you know?
The Tolpuddle Vineyard has become a celebrated site for Pinot Noir in Australia, with its wines reflecting Tasmania’s ideal conditions for this varietal. The vineyard’s focus on sustainability and precise viticultural techniques have contributed to its reputation for producing wines of purity and elegance, year after year.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Duck confit with cherry reduction: The rich, savory character of the duck pairs beautifully with the wine’s red cherry and smoked meat notes.
- Grilled lamb chops with rosemary: The firm tannins and spice in the Pinot complement the lamb’s texture and herbal flavors.
- Wild mushroom risotto: The earthy tones of the mushrooms echo the wine’s complexity, enhancing its depth.
- Aged Gouda: The Pinot’s acidity and tannins balance the cheese’s nutty, savory flavors, creating a refined pairing.
