Stonier Merricks Pinot Noir 2024

Merricks Pinot Noir is a blend the best vineyards in the Merricks sub region.  The vineyards are all cool maritime sites planted on our red volcanic soil, running up the ridge behind the winery.  Moderate to high elevation (100m - 140m) and average vine age close to 40 years.

A new wine, a gorgeous wine, comprising Stonier fruit plus off the north-facing Gance vineyard, also on Thompsons Lane near the winery. This manages to oscillate between a core of good fruit – all red cherries and blood orange with zest, and lots of savouriness, the baking spices, the smell of joss sticks, the twiggy notes from 20% whole bunches in the fermentation, thus a little autumnal. Nothing overt, it’s well composed, the tannins feathery and lightly textured, the acidity refreshing and it’s a joy to drink.   96 points,  Jane Faulkner