2023 Murdoch Hill Artisan Series Apollo Pinot Noir, Adelaide Hills

The wine is called Apollo, and when you taste it, it takes you to the stars. This wine is so good, and so distinct, that it's tempting to say that it redefines what is possible with pinot noir and the Adelaide Hills. It's complex. It's structured. It's Italianate. It's varietal. And it's itself. It brings smoked, ripe, berried fruit to the table and then layers woodsy herbs, gunmetal, twigs and peppers throughout. It's a big statement in measured, precise voice. Wow. Seriously. Wow.

98 points Special Value Campbell Mattinson winecompanion.com.au

Murdoch Hill Artisan Series Apollo Pinot Noir from Adelaide Hills is a captivating, small-batch expression of cool-climate Pinot, crafted by the ever-talented Michael Downer. Known for pushing boundaries while respecting terroir, Downer’s Artisan Series showcases the best vineyard parcels and thoughtful winemaking. Apollo, named for the Greek god of light and poetry, lives up to its name—bright, expressive, and beautifully layered.

In the glass, it’s a shimmering ruby red, almost translucent but packed with aromatic energy. The nose is pure Adelaide Hills Pinot—wild strawberries, red cherries, and cranberry, lifted by floral notes of rose petal and violets. There’s a savoury edge, too, with hints of forest floor, crushed herbs, and a touch of spice from subtle oak aging. On the palate, it’s light on its feet yet deeply complex, offering juicy red fruits, blood orange, and a whisper of pomegranate. Fine-boned tannins and crisp acidity create a silky texture, while a mineral streak runs through the core, keeping everything fresh and focused. The finish is long, pure, and quietly powerful.

This Pinot Noir shines alongside duck confit, roast chicken with thyme, or wild mushroom risotto. It’s also perfect for a charcuterie spread or simply enjoyed on its own when you’re in the mood for something truly special. While drinking beautifully now, it has the structure to evolve gracefully over the next 5–7 years, gaining further complexity while maintaining its vibrant charm.

With Apollo, Michael Downer proves once again why Murdoch Hill is a standout in the Adelaide Hills scene. It’s Pinot with personality—refined, expressive, and impossible to resist.