- Half a century ago, vignerons began to recognise the Mornington Peninsula’s immense potential for cool-climate grape-growing. Now, the region is world-renowned for its fine wine – pinot noir, in particular. Pinot noir from the Mornington Peninsula typically displays red fruits and elegant, integrated tannins that allow the wines to gain complexity with age. Try these classic examples.
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2018 Principia Pinot Noir
It has flavours of red fruits, sour cherries and hints of mandarin oil. The palate is medium-bodied with seamlessly integrated cinnamon and spicy fine tannins from tight-grained French oak. Best enjoyed with tea-smoked duck and in a glass large enough to allow the aromas to sing. -
2017 Ocean Eight Pinot Noir
The 2017 vintage shows classic Mornington Peninsula red fruits of cherry and raspberry, with lovely texture alongside exceptional intensity. Ocean Eight wines are made to pair well with food. Drink this pinot with roasted yellow duck curry or tandoori-marinated salmon. -
2018 Crittenden Estate Cri de Coeur Pinot Noir
Fifty per cent whole bunches in the fermentation lead to a spicy, fragrant nose with vibrant fruit and textured tannins on the palate. Decant this pinot for at least half an hour prior to serving, and enjoy it with glazed duck with an orange sauce or roast pork.
RRP $45 | Drink to 2028 | principiawines.com.au
RRP $55 | Drink to 2024 | oceaneight.com.au
RRP $80 | Drink to 2044 | crittendenwines.com.au
Learn more about the Mornington Peninsula in our essential guide.
*This article was produced by Halliday Wine Companion in partnership with the featured wineries.
Top image credit: Wine Australia