2023 Wickhams Road Pinot Gris, King Valley

Wickhams Road Pinot Gris from King Valley is a bright and approachable expression of cool climate Pinot Gris, shaped by alpine influences and a strong Italian heritage that defines this high country region. King Valley sits at elevation in north east Victoria, with cool nights, warm days and long growing seasons that allow Pinot Gris to ripen slowly while retaining freshness and aromatic lift. Free draining loam and granite influenced soils contribute to the wine’s clean fruit profile and subtle textural edge, making it a natural fit for the variety.

Wickhams Road is the second label of Hoddles Creek Estate in the Yarra Valley, and while the sourcing shifts to King Valley, the philosophy remains the same. Balance, restraint and drinkability come first. Fruit is harvested to preserve freshness, gently pressed and handled with minimal intervention, with a small amount of lees contact used to build texture without losing clarity. The aim is a Pinot Gris that is varietally clear, food friendly and reflective of its cool climate origins rather than heavy or sweet.

In the glass the wine shows a pale straw colour with a faint copper tint. Aromas are fresh and inviting, offering pear, nashi apple and white peach alongside hints of citrus zest and almond. The palate is medium bodied and supple, delivering orchard fruit flavours framed by crisp acidity and a clean, lightly savoury finish with gentle phenolic grip. It is an excellent match for seafood, Asian inspired dishes, pork, salads and light pasta, and while designed for early enjoyment, it has the balance to hold well for three to five years.

Wickhams Road Pinot Gris from King Valley is an easygoing yet well made Australian white, offering freshness, texture and regional charm in a style that is versatile and consistently appealing.