2023 Dawson & James Island Belle Pinot Noir, Derwent Valley

The grapes are sourced from the Meadowbank vineyard in the Derwent Valley, Tasmania, utilizing patches of younger vines and new clones that we expect to evolve into Dawson James wines over time.

Dawson & James Island Belle Pinot Noir from the Derwent Valley is a finely detailed, cool-climate Pinot that delivers exceptional value without sacrificing complexity or character. Sourced from the Meadowbank vineyard, one of Tasmania’s most respected sites, this wine is crafted by Peter Dawson and Tim James, two veterans of the Australian wine world with a shared focus on elegance, precision and site expression. Island Belle Pinot Noir is all about purity of fruit, silky texture and savoury structure.

The fruit is hand-picked and fermented in small open-top fermenters, with a portion of whole bunches included to enhance perfume and tannin. Gentle extraction preserves freshness and aromatic lift, and the wine is matured in French oak barrels, typically with around 20 percent new oak, for subtle seasoning and finesse.

In the glass, it opens with aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry, red cherry, rose petal and a hint of dried herbs and forest floor. The palate is medium bodied and finely textured, with bright acidity, delicate tannins and flavours of cranberry, spice and a savoury earthiness that builds through the finish. It’s vibrant and refined, showing a clear sense of place with polish and energy.

Food pairing: excellent with roast duck, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, or beetroot and goats cheese salad. Also works well with washed rind cheeses or charcuterie.

Cellar potential: drinking well now with a short decant but will reward cellaring over 5 to 8 years, developing more savoury depth and softness.