2024 Golden Child Manic Monday Pinot Noir, Adelaide Hills

Golden Child Manic Monday Pinot Noir from the Adelaide Hills is a fresh, juicy, and seriously fun take on Pinot that doesn’t take itself too seriously—until you taste it. This is the kind of wine that wears a leather jacket to a long lunch: cool, a little wild, and full of personality.

Golden Child is the project of James Hamilton, a second-generation grape grower turned winemaker who brings a playful, minimal-intervention approach to fruit grown on his family’s vineyard in Kuitpo. The wine is made with wild ferments, a light touch of whole bunch, and old oak for ageing—techniques that keep it lively, aromatic, and dangerously drinkable.

Expect a bright rush of red cherry, cranberry, and raspberry on the nose, with hints of rose petal, forest floor, and just a flick of spice. It’s light to medium bodied but full of flavour, with silky tannins, juicy acidity and that unmistakable Adelaide Hills vibrancy. There’s an edge of wildness that makes it feel super alive in the glass.

It’s a natural with roast duck, mushroom tacos, charcuterie, or even just a Friday night with pizza and good company. Manic Monday isn’t about cellaring or rules—it’s about cracking it open and enjoying the ride.