2019 Mountadam Pinot Gris, Eden Valley

Mountadam Pinot Gris is a refined, cool climate expression from Eden Valley that leans into texture, spice and savoury detail rather than simple fruit sweetness. Eden Valley’s high elevation, cool nights and long growing season give Pinot Gris a naturally slower ripening curve, preserving acidity while allowing flavour to build gradually. The region’s shallow, rocky soils over granite add a mineral edge and structural tension that set these wines apart from richer, warmer climate styles.

Mountadam is one of Eden Valley’s pioneering estates, established in the early 1970s and long associated with wines of structure, restraint and longevity. Pinot Gris here is made with the same serious intent as the estate’s Riesling and Chardonnay, favouring balance and food friendliness over obvious aromatics. The style is confident and European in feel, reflecting both site and careful handling.

In the glass, the wine is layered and expressive. Nashi pear, white peach and baked apple lead, followed by subtle notes of ginger, spice and citrus peel. There is a gentle floral lift, but it is the savoury undertone that stands out, hints of almond skin and wet stone giving depth and interest.

On the palate, Mountadam Pinot Gris is beautifully composed. The texture is supple and mouth filling without being heavy, supported by fresh, well integrated acidity that keeps the wine lively and precise. Pear and stone fruit flavours carry through the mid palate, with a fine mineral grip and gentle spice emerging toward the finish. It ends dry, savoury and persistent, making it especially suited to the table.

This is a versatile food wine. It pairs beautifully with roast chicken, pork, Asian inspired dishes, seafood with texture or vegetable driven plates where spice and balance matter. It is drinking well now for its freshness and detail, but it will also hold comfortably over the short to medium term as the savoury elements deepen.

Mountadam Pinot Gris is an elegant, thoughtful expression of Eden Valley. Textural, balanced and quietly complex, it is a Pinot Gris for those who appreciate subtlety and structure over sweetness.