Howard Vineyard Pinot Noir 2025, Adelaide Hills

Howard Vineyard Pinot Noir 2025,
Adelaide Hills · 13.8% alc.

Estate grown on the Charleston ‘Beautiful Valley’ vineyard. Made by Tom Northcott, this is a confidently styled Adelaide Hills pinot noir built for drinking now or over the next five years.

The 25% whole bunch fermentation brings a stalky edge to the tannin profile, adding shape and savoury detail, while ripe, tangy fruit sits at the core. Plum, cherry and spice lead the way, the fruit profile generous, with a subtle herbal inflection from the stems.

Mid-weight, the palate shows silky tannins balanced by fresh red cherry acidity that keeps things moving. Oak is unobtrusive, allowing the fruit to speak clearly.

Finishes with spice, earth, red fruits and a fine tannin line.

Score: 95/100
★★★★★ An outstanding Adelaide Hills Pinot Noir

Background

Viticulture:  Beautiful Valley Vineyard, Charleston. Elevation and Aspect, 450-500 AMSL with gentle slopes (5-12%) generally facing the east.

Winemaking:  Clones are separately hand picked, 25% whole bunch ferments in small 2t batches. Hand plunged twice per day with pump overs, ensuring maximum oxygen for healthy yeast and soft pick up of colour and tannin. Aged in 100% French oak 500L barrels for 6 months.