2022 Freycinet Louis Pinot Noir, Bicheno

Estate-grown pinot noir from 25-year-old East Coast vines; matured in French oak. Bright ruby in the glass with aromas of red cherry, raspberry, redcurrant and red apple supported by hints of exotic spice, mushroom broth, earth, leaf litter and pressed purple flowers. Plenty of space and detail with chewy, chalky tannin grip, pure cherry and berry fruits and bright, saline acidity providing plenty of drive.

91 points Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

Geoff and Susan Bull were early viticultural pioneers on the East Coast of Tasmania, establishing Freycinet Vineyard in 1979. It is situated adjacent to the picturesque Freycinet Peninsula, (latitude 42 degrees), which is named in honour of the French explorer Louis de Freycinet, who chartered the region in 1802. The 15 hectare vineyard is proudly family owned and the wines are 100% grown, produced and bottled on the estate. 

The site is a warm sheltered one within the truly cool Tasmanian climate. The vineyards are meticulously hand tended to grow moderate yields of fully ripe healthy fruit. The rustic winery houses 'state of the art' equipment to ensure wine quality is not lost. 

The aroma reveals spicy red berry fruits with subtle oak and forest perfume. The generous round palate is awash with sweet cherry and plum flavours overlaying savoury silky fine tannins and a smooth textural long finish. The restrained use of oak accentuates the fruit and drinkability of this wine in its youth. Careful cellaring at a cool, constant temperature over any period up to 10 years will add extra mellowness and gamey complexity.