2024 Aunt Alice Night Sky Pinot Noir, Tasmania

This year's release sees a blend of three vineyards from the Derwent Valley, Coal River Valley and Tamar Valley; 40% whole bunch. Red plum and raspberry fruits with hints of cherry clafoutis, souk-like spice, dried orange rind, almond blossom, dried meats, pomegranate and light undergrowth tones. Medium bodied with a seam of snappy, sapid acidity and some beautiful sour cherry and plum skin notes on the finish. Lively, delicious drinking.

93 points Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

Aunt Alice Night Sky Pinot Noir from Tasmania is a small-batch, artisanal wine that captures the cool-climate elegance the island is now world-famous for. Tasmania’s long, slow ripening season, combined with maritime breezes and pristine soils, allows Pinot Noir to develop purity, aromatic lift and natural balance — and this cuvée leans into all those traits with real finesse.

The fruit is sourced from select Tasmanian vineyards, where low yields and careful hand-picking give intensity and detail. Winemaking is kept gentle and traditional: wild fermentations, partial whole-bunch inclusion for spice and lift, and maturation in French oak (usually older barrels to avoid dominating the fruit). The name “Night Sky” reflects both the wine’s ethereal character and the pristine, star-filled nights that Tasmania is known for.

In the glass, it offers perfumed aromas of wild strawberry, cranberry and cherry, laced with rose petal, cinnamon and a subtle earthy edge. The palate is silken and medium-bodied, with a core of red fruit framed by fine, chalky tannins and a bright line of acidity. There’s an energy and delicacy to the wine that speaks to Tasmania’s terroir, finishing long and mineral.

Food pairings should highlight its elegance and freshness. Roast duck with plum glaze, mushroom risotto, or seared salmon with miso would all be perfect companions. It’s also excellent with charcuterie or soft, creamy cheeses. With cellaring of 5–7 years, it will gain savoury complexity and layers of truffle and forest floor.