2024 Dalrymple Pinot Noir, Pipers River

Dalrymple Pinot Noir from Pipers River is a beautifully expressive cool climate Tasmanian Pinot, shaped by sweeping coastal winds, ancient soils and the meticulous work of winemaker Peter Caldwell, who has long championed the elegance and aromatic purity of northern Tasmania. Pipers River is one of Australia’s most distinctive Pinot regions with its cool maritime climate, fog laden mornings and long ripening season. The vineyards sit on ancient basalt and clay loam soils scattered with quartz and ironstone, giving the wine its lifted perfume, fine tannins and that subtle mineral thread that has become a hallmark of Dalrymple’s style. The estate was one of Tasmania’s early pioneers of Pinot Noir and has steadily refined its craft into one of the state’s strongest expressions.

Winemaking focuses on detail and precision. Fruit is hand picked from a collection of Dalrymple’s estate and grower parcels, fermented in small open top vats and treated with a mix of whole berries and whole bunches depending on vintage. This approach builds perfume, structure and silky texture without overwhelming the wine’s natural delicacy. Ageing takes place in French oak, with a modest portion new, to bring gentle spice and refinement. Dalrymple’s commitment to capturing the nuance of site over sheer power gives this wine its sleek, graceful character.

In the glass it shows a translucent ruby colour. The nose is beautifully aromatic with red cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry leading the way, supported by subtle notes of rose petals, cranberry, orange peel and a touch of savoury spice. As the wine opens, hints of forest floor, clove, dried herbs and an earthy mineral tone appear, echoing the cool, windswept slopes of Pipers River.

The palate is silky, vibrant and finely layered. Juicy red fruits glide across the tongue wrapped in fine, powdery tannins and lively acidity that keeps everything bright. Flavours of cherry, redcurrant, pomegranate and subtle oak spice unfold across a supple mid palate, joined by whispers of dried flowers, cocoa and damp earth. The finish is long, fresh and quietly savoury with lingering red fruit and a clean mineral thread. It is a Pinot Noir that delivers pure pleasure in youth yet has the balance to develop gracefully over eight to ten years.

Pair it with roast duck, mushroom risotto, herb roasted chicken, pork fillet, grilled salmon, truffle pasta, creamy cheeses or earthy vegetarian dishes. Its elegance and freshness make it one of Tasmania’s most versatile table wines.