2023 Coulter C3 Pinot Noir, Adelaide Hills

This wine is made from fruit of both Kuitpo and Carey Gully parishes of the Adelaide Hills. It sees 30% whole bunches in the ferment. A light and comely pinot noir of juicy red cherry and raspberry fruitiness licked at by clove spice, some green olive characters, white pepper and dill herbal notes. It's a fresh and frisky rendering of the variety, quite transparent in texture and its character, easy drinking and destined for the odd fridge chill from those experienced and invited by cold red wine drinking.

90 points Mike Bennie winecompanion.com.au

The Coulter C3 Pinot Noir from Adelaide Hills is a vibrant and expressive wine that showcases the elegance and finesse of cool-climate Pinot Noir. Crafted by Chris Coulter, a winemaker celebrated for his minimal-intervention approach, this Pinot Noir is a testament to the region’s ability to produce wines of purity, balance, and complexity.

On the nose, it reveals enticing aromas of red cherries, wild strawberries, and raspberries, interwoven with hints of rose petals, earthy spice, and a touch of forest floor. A delicate whisper of oak adds depth without overshadowing the bright fruit character.

The palate is medium-bodied and silky, with fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity providing structure and vibrancy. Flavors of ripe red fruits are layered with savory notes of dried herbs, black tea, and a subtle mineral edge. The finish is long and refined, showcasing the wine’s finesse and balance.

Sourced from high-altitude vineyards in Adelaide Hills, the grapes benefit from cool nights and sunny days, which allow for slow ripening and the development of nuanced flavors. Gentle winemaking techniques, including wild fermentation and minimal oak influence, ensure the wine remains a true expression of its varietal and terroir.

This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with dishes such as duck confit, roasted salmon, or wild mushroom risotto. It also complements lighter fare like charcuterie or a simple herb-crusted chicken. While enjoyable now for its fresh vibrancy, it has the structure to age gracefully for 5–7 years, developing further complexity over time.