2023 Thousand Candles Gathering Field Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley

20–30% whole bunches and matured in older barriques and hogsheads. A light, bright ruby red. Poised and nicely defined aromas of red fruits, gentle florals and a little spice. It's a touch closed, in a good way, on the medium-bodied, energetic and very well-balanced palate. A quite delicious and well-priced wine to drink over the next three to four years.

95 points Special Value Philip Rich winecompanion.com.au

Thousand Candles Gathering Field Pinot Noir from the Yarra Valley is a beautifully lifted, textural expression of cool-climate Pinot made with restraint, clarity, and a deep respect for place. This is not a wine that chases power or polish, it’s one that tells a quiet, thoughtful story through wild fruit, gentle handling, and a finely tuned sense of balance.

Sourced from estate-grown vineyards nestled in the Upper Yarra, where elevation and red volcanic soils offer purity and natural elegance, Gathering Field is all about minimal intervention and maximum site expression. Winemaking is deliberately hands-off—handpicked fruit, wild fermentation, whole bunch inclusion, and maturation in older French oak to preserve aromatics and structure without interference.

In the glass, it’s light ruby in colour with aromas of wild strawberry, red cherry, rosehip, crushed herbs, and a subtle smoky, forest floor undertone. The palate is supple and fine, with silky tannins, fresh acidity, and a long, savoury finish that lingers with earthy spice and mineral tension. It’s graceful, vibrant, and full of character—Pinot Noir with soul.

Gathering Field is ideal with duck confit, grilled trout, or mushroom risotto. It’s a wine that doesn’t shout but leaves a lasting impression with every quiet, deliberate sip.