2024 Domaine A Stoney Vineyard Pinot Noir, Coal River Valley

From one of Tasmania’s most revered sites, Stoney Vineyard sits just outside Campania in the Coal River Valley, a place where low rainfall, bright light and long, cool ripening seasons shape Pinot Noir with remarkable clarity. Domaine A was established by Denis Hill in the late 1970s and remains one of the island’s benchmark estates, now guided by winemaker Peter Althaus. The vineyard itself is a jewel, low yielding, meticulously farmed and capable of producing Pinot with both power and restraint.

Coal River Valley Pinot carries a slightly darker, more structured edge compared to other Tasmanian regions, thanks to its drier conditions and varied soils of sandstone and dolerite. Stoney Vineyard leans into that profile, delivering depth while still holding onto the fine detail that makes Pinot so compelling.

The colour shows a deeper ruby hue than many expect from Tasmania. Aromatics are layered and slowly unfurling, dark cherry and black raspberry at the core, followed by violets, dried herbs and a savoury undercurrent of forest floor and spice. There is a quiet intensity here, nothing rushed or overly showy.

On the palate it walks a beautiful line between richness and precision. Dark fruits carry through, framed by fine, persistent tannins and a natural acidity that keeps everything in balance. Subtle oak adds structure and gentle spice without taking over. With time in the glass, more earthy, gamey notes begin to emerge, adding another layer of complexity.

This is Pinot that welcomes thoughtful food. Roast duck with crispy skin, quail with native herbs, or a slow cooked pork dish with fennel all sit comfortably alongside its depth and savoury edge. Mushroom driven dishes also work well here, especially when there is a touch of truffle or earthiness to echo the wine.

It has the structure to age gracefully for ten to fifteen years, developing more tertiary character while retaining its core fruit and line.

There is a sense of quiet authority about this wine, shaped by an exceptional site and decades of careful stewardship. Best enjoyed when you have the time to sit with it, let it evolve, and appreciate the layers that unfold.