2021 Bellvale Pinot Gris, Gippsland

Bellvale Pinot Gris from Gippsland is a lovely example of cool climate Australian Pinot Gris that leans into texture, freshness and quiet complexity rather than simple fruitiness. The Bellvale vineyard sits in South Gippsland, an area shaped by rolling hills, high rainfall and consistently cool conditions. Soils here are predominantly volcanic and clay based, helping the vines retain moisture and build flavour while the cool climate locks in acidity. It is a region perfectly suited to aromatic whites with natural tension.

Bellvale is very much a hands on, family run estate, with the wine shaped by the Bell family’s long term commitment to their site. Everything is grown, harvested and made on the property, with a strong focus on expressing vineyard character. The Pinot Gris is handled gently, with careful fermentation and time on lees to build mouthfeel without losing clarity.

In the glass, this is expressive and refined. Pear, nashi apple and white peach sit at the core, with hints of citrus zest, almond meal and a faint spice note adding interest. The palate shows lovely texture, slightly savoury and softly rounded, balanced by bright acidity that keeps it fresh and dry. It is not overtly rich, but it has depth and persistence, finishing clean with a subtle mineral edge.

This is a very food friendly style of Pinot Gris. It works beautifully with roast chicken, grilled pork, seafood, or dishes with gentle spice and texture like dumplings or risotto. It is drinking well now for its freshness and charm, but it will also hold comfortably for a few years, developing extra savoury complexity with time.