2024 Bicknell fc Applecross Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley

From the old Lance's vineyard, planted from 1976–1998 (with a selection massale from Mount Mary) and in 2003. 80% whole berry and 20% whole bunch. Bright crimson. Perfumed with wild strawberries, first of the summer cherries, subtle rose bush and spice. The more you swirl the glass, the more fragrant it becomes. On the palate, there is a tender plushness, making it feel quite different to the previous bicknell fc pinots from the Upper Yarra. Fine tannins and bright acidity round out a beautifully crafted and graceful wine. Drink to 2032.

96+ points Special Value Philip Rich for Halliday Wine Companion, December 2025

The 2024 Applecross Pinot Noir is from a massal selection of clonal material planted between 1976 and 1998 at St. Andrews in the Yarra Valley. It was fermented with whole berries/whole bunches, and the élevage was in French oak barrels. This wine, a few months ahead of its market release currently, is so bright and perfumed. Rose, pistachio, graphite/petrichor, dry spice and tapenade coalesce on the palate in a rush. Pure, tightly wound and eminently focused, this is a gorgeous wine. The whole-bunch character rides high in the wine, but far from finding it distracting, I find myself attracted to it. This is super good and comes warmly recommended. Drink to 2039.

95+ points Erin Larkin for The Wine Advocate, September 2025

Light, bright red-purple hue. Aromas of dark cherry to plum, fruit driven and bright, the bouquet archetypal pinot noir, unencumbered by artifact. Soft, gentle grip: an easyoing pinot with minimal tannins, finely grained and harmonious. (A massale selection of vines planted at St Andrews between 1976 and 1998). Drink to 2032.

91 points Huon Hooke for The Real Review, February 2026

The Bicknell family has built its reputation on a simple belief that exceptional vineyards deserve thoughtful, understated winemaking. At the heart of the estate is the Applecross Vineyard in the Upper Yarra, where a cool climate, ancient soils and meticulous viticulture consistently produce Pinot Noir of remarkable character. The FC Applecross Pinot Noir is the flagship expression of the vineyard, made only from the finest parcels to capture the individuality of this outstanding site.

The 2024 vintage delivered beautifully balanced fruit, with cool conditions and a long growing season encouraging slow flavour development and vibrant natural acidity. Small batch fermentation, judicious use of whole bunches and maturation in premium French oak have created a wine that is both expressive and finely detailed, where purity of fruit takes precedence over winemaking influence.

Brilliant ruby red in colour, the bouquet unfolds with red currant, raspberry and dark cherry, followed by hints of pomegranate, star anise, cedar and dried sage. As the wine breathes, subtle notes of black tea, autumn leaves and crushed rock bring further complexity. The palate is beautifully composed, combining succulent red berry fruit with finely woven tannins and a gentle mineral thread. There is impressive concentration without heaviness, finishing long, savoury and persistent with exceptional freshness that invites another sip.

A wonderful partner to roast duck, grilled spatchcock, cedar plank salmon, mushroom pappardelle or roasted pumpkin with sage and hazelnuts. Drinking superbly in its youth, this refined Yarra Valley Pinot Noir has the balance and structure to continue evolving gracefully over the next ten to twelve years.