2024 Montalto Pennon Hill Pinot Noir, Mornington Peninsula

Montalto Pennon Hill Pinot Noir is a bright, juicy, and delightfully expressive cool-climate red from the Mornington Peninsula — a region that has become one of Australia’s leading sources of elegant, Pinot-driven wines. Crafted with an emphasis on drinkability and site transparency, Pennon Hill offers immediate charm and freshness, while still carrying enough complexity to keep things interesting.

Winemaker Simon Black selects fruit from a range of estate vineyards, with a mix of elevations, soil types and microclimates contributing to the wine’s vibrant personality. Fermentation is with wild yeasts, and the wine is aged in a combination of old and new French oak (typically minimal new oak) to preserve the purity of fruit.

In the glass, the wine is light ruby and lifted with aromas of wild strawberry, red cherry, rose petal and a hint of sweet spice. The palate is medium-bodied and silky, with bright red fruits, subtle savoury undertones and a soft line of acidity running through. Tannins are fine and unobtrusive, making this a highly versatile, food-friendly style that’s approachable on release but well made.

Food pairing: Ideal with grilled salmon, roast duck with plum sauce, mushroom pizza, or even seared tuna with soy and sesame. Also lovely with a wedge of aged Gruyère or goat’s cheese.

Cellar potential: Best enjoyed within 3–5 years of vintage for its freshness and vibrant fruit, though it can soften and evolve gentle earthy notes with short-term cellaring.