2024 Philip Shaw No 8 Pinot Noir, Orange

The No. 8 is named for Philip Shaw's lucky number — a fitting tribute to what turned out to be a fortunate gamble. When Pinot Noir was first planted at Koomooloo in the late 1980s, it was far from an established variety in Orange. The altitude and cool continental climate proved a natural match, and the wine has been one of the region's reliable benchmarks ever since.

Daniel Shaw continues that work with a respectful hand. The grapes are hand harvested and sorted, fermented in open vats with wild yeast, with 40% whole bunches adding texture and lift. Thirty percent new French barriques and ten months on fine lees give the wine its quiet structure without crowding the fruit.

The 2024 shows the variety's signature fragrance — red cherry, wild strawberry and a hint of forest floor on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied and elegant, with supple tannins, fresh acidity and a savoury, herb-edged finish that lingers with real composure. This is cool-climate Pinot at its most honest nothing added, nothing taken away.

Duck, mushroom risotto, salmon, or a good charcuterie board. It will also reward a few years in the cellar.

Drink now through 2030.