2023 Foxeys Hangout Red Fox Pinot Noir, Mornington

Foxeys Hangout Red Fox Pinot Noir from Mornington Peninsula is a vibrant and expressive red wine that beautifully captures the cool-climate elegance of this renowned Australian wine region. Produced by Foxeys Hangout, a boutique winery celebrated for its focus on small-batch, sustainably crafted wines, this Pinot Noir is a testament to the winery’s dedication to quality and detail.

Mornington Peninsula’s maritime climate and rolling hills provide the ideal conditions for growing Pinot Noir, with cool nights and moderate days allowing for a slow ripening process. The resulting fruit develops a balance of vibrant acidity, fine tannins, and expressive aromatics, hallmarks of the region’s Pinot Noir.

The Red Fox Pinot Noir is crafted using minimal intervention techniques to ensure the wine reflects the purity of the fruit and the unique terroir of Mornington. Grapes are hand-harvested and gently fermented with partial whole-bunch inclusion to enhance structure and aromatics. Aging in French oak barrels, with a restrained use of new oak, adds subtle texture and complexity without overpowering the wine’s fresh and vibrant character.

In the glass, the wine displays a bright ruby-red hue. The nose is enticing and layered, offering aromas of red cherries, wild strawberries, and cranberries, complemented by hints of rose petals, earthy spice, and a touch of forest floor. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and silky, with finely tuned acidity and soft tannins supporting flavors of ripe red fruit, subtle clove, and a whisper of savory herbs. The finish is long and refined, with a perfect balance of freshness and depth.

Foxeys Hangout Red Fox Pinot Noir is a versatile food wine, pairing wonderfully with dishes like roasted duck, grilled salmon, or mushroom risotto. It also complements lighter fare such as charcuterie or goat cheese. While approachable now, this Pinot Noir has the potential to evolve gracefully over 5-7 years, developing additional complexity with time.