2024 Rob Hall Harriet’s Vineyard Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley

From the '96-planted Harriet's vineyard in Healesville. 15% whole bunches. A light, bright garnet. Subtly perfumed with aromas of gently poached strawberries and a little rose petal together with some light cinnamon and nutmeg scents. It's gentle and refined on the palate, too, with silky, persistent tannins that suggest this is a wine to be drunk and enjoyed now and over the next three to four years.

93 points Philip Rich for Halliday Wine Companion

Rob Hall has built a devoted following for wines that champion vineyard character, thoughtful farming and a refreshingly hands off approach in the winery. After years working with some of Australia's leading producers, he established his own label to focus on small batch wines that reflect the individuality of exceptional sites across the Yarra Valley. Harriet's Vineyard Pinot Noir is one of the jewels of the range, sourced from a mature vineyard that consistently delivers fruit of remarkable perfume, finesse and quiet complexity.

The 2024 vintage provided ideal conditions for cool climate Pinot Noir, with a long, gentle growing season allowing flavours to develop slowly while preserving freshness and natural acidity. Hand picked fruit was fermented in small batches with sensitive use of whole bunches before maturing in French oak, building texture and complexity without masking the vineyard's distinctive personality. The result is a Pinot Noir that speaks with clarity, elegance and an unmistakable sense of place.

Brilliant ruby red in colour, the bouquet opens with aromas of red cherry, cranberry and pomegranate, complemented by fragrant notes of Chinese five spice, dried thyme and rosehip. As the wine evolves, hints of black tea, cedar, autumn leaves and a fine mineral note emerge, adding layers of savoury intrigue. The palate is beautifully composed, balancing vibrant red fruits with silky tannins and lively acidity. Delicate spice, subtle earthy nuances and finely integrated oak carry through a long, graceful finish that is both detailed and effortlessly refined.

A superb match for roast duck, grilled quail, cedar plank salmon, wild mushroom risotto or roasted beetroot with whipped goat's cheese and walnuts. While already wonderfully expressive, this elegant Yarra Valley Pinot Noir has the balance and structure to evolve beautifully over the next eight to twelve years.