2024 Scotchmans Hill Pinot Noir, Bellarine Peninsula

All estate-grown fruit and fermented with 15% whole bunches. A very bright crimson ruby. The bouquet is brightly fruited, too, with its aromas of dark cherry, rosebush and spice. Medium bodied, the palate is both detailed and structured, and while approachable now, everything is in place for this to become quite a bit more complex over the next six to eight years. Drink to 2034.

95 points (Special Value) Philip Rich for Halliday Wine Companion, July 2026

Established in 1982, Scotchmans Hill is the Bellarine Peninsula's oldest winery and one of the region's most consistent producers. Chief winemaker Robin Brockett — a Halliday Hall of Fame inductee with over 35 years at the estate — has been instrumental in establishing the Bellarine as a serious cool-climate wine region. Halliday Five Red Stars.

Pinot Noir is where the Bellarine Peninsula's cool maritime climate reveals itself most clearly. The cooling influence of Port Phillip Bay extends the growing season and preserves the natural acidity and fragrance that the variety demands, while the estate's deep volcanic clay soils retain moisture through the dry summer months and support even, consistent ripening.

The 2024 is perfumed and immediately inviting. Red plum, dark cherry and a sweet sappy character on the nose, with a thread of spice and subtle oak complexity. The palate is juicy and well-weighted, with raspberries and ripe cherries building through fine, silky tannins to a long, refined finish.

The slightly sweet soy broth, tender beef and earthy mushrooms of Japanese sukiyaki would complement the wine's red fruit and spice beautifully.

Drink by 2030.