2025 William Downie Tolmie Pinot Noir

This Pinot started with a bit of curiosity for Bill Downie. While driving backroads near Tolmie in Upper Goulburn, a glimpse of pink volcanic soil that he'd never seen before gave him a hunch that it might grow something interesting. A few vintages later, here it is: a fresh, frisky, and ready-to-rip sibling Pinot to the hugely popular Cathedral Pinot Noir.

Most of the fruit comes from the Barwite vineyard just outside Tolmie, with the rest from Mornington and a little splash of King Valley. It’s bright and open from the get-go. Think redcurrant, sour cherry, a little tobacco and something earthy like wet stone or miso. There’s structure, sure, but it’s not trying to be fancy. The palate is chewy and vibrant, with a mix of spice, red fruit and a mineral thread running through it.

It’s the kind of Pinot you’ll want to drink with mates, maybe slightly chilled, with food or without. No cellaring required - it’s ready when you are. Great debut of a new drop for one of Australia's Pinot Noir masters.

92 points
"Feels more serious than its price point too, albeit the style isn’t as easy access as its stablemate Cathedral."
- Mike Bennie (The Wine Front)