Ever delicate and ever fussy about where it is grown; a refined pinot noir is something to behold. The 13 examples of Australian pinot noir included in this year’s Red Hot & Rated guide hail from Northern Tasmania, the Tumbarumba region and areas of Victoria, most notably the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula.
Thanks to its higher acidity levels and fine, soft tannins, pinot noir is the lighter alternative to heavier, more intense red wines – traditionally, shiraz and cabernet sauvignon. Its graceful flavour profile makes pinot noir a dream pairing with food. Try pouring a glass of Australian pinot noir as you sit down to a lightly spiced Thai dish, or opt for a more tannic example as an accompaniment for beef bourguignon.
Also in the mix is a Beechworth nebbiolo. This Italian varietal is known for its power, high tannin and full body, while still producing a wine that has a similar shade to pinot noir.