2024 Delamere Estate Pinot Noir, Pipers Brook

Delamere Estate Pinot Noir is one of Tasmania’s standout cool-climate reds, showcasing the elegance and aromatic intensity that Pipers Brook is famous for. Delamere is a family-owned estate founded in 1982, making it one of the earliest vineyards planted in this northerly pocket of Tasmania. Since 2007, winemaker Fran Austin and viticulturist Shane Holloway have been at the helm, transforming Delamere into one of the region’s leading Pinot producers through meticulous vineyard management and a focus on expressing site character with precision.

The vineyards are located just 10 kilometres from Bass Strait, where cool maritime winds and long, mild ripening seasons create ideal conditions for Pinot Noir. The vines are planted on free-draining red basalt soils over clay, which help control vigour and concentrate flavours. The fruit is handpicked and sorted, with whole-bunch components used to add structure and complexity. Fermentation is carried out with a mix of wild and selected yeasts, and the wine is aged in French oak barriques, a portion of which are new, to build subtle spice and texture without overpowering the fruit.

In the glass, Delamere Pinot Noir shows a luminous ruby colour. Aromas of wild strawberries, red cherries, rose petals, and subtle forest floor leap from the glass, layered with gentle oak spice. The palate is medium bodied and beautifully poised, with silky tannins, vibrant acidity, and flavours of red berries, savoury herbs, and a touch of earthiness leading to a long, elegant finish. It’s a wine that speaks clearly of its cool-climate origin, combining fragrance, finesse, and structure.

This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roast duck, mushroom risotto, crispy pork belly, or grilled salmon. Its freshness and fine tannins also make it a wonderful match for charcuterie or soft washed-rind cheeses. While absolutely delicious in its youth, it has the balance and concentration to develop further complexity over 8 to 10 years in the cellar.