Murdoch Hill is one of the most exciting wine producers in the Adelaide Hills; consistently producing stunning examples of the region's hero varietals. Nestled in the undulating hills of Oakbank, the Estate vineyards were planted by the Downer family in 1998.
The 2023 Murdoch Hill Apollo Pinot Noir represents the fourth release of this wine, which is fast establishing itself as one of the pre-eminent examples of Adelaide Hills Pinot Nor. As with previous vintages, this is made from grapes grown on the Downer family's Lenswood Vineyard. This opens with lifted perfume of red fruits, dark cherry and savoury spice. The mouth-watering palate delivers impeccable fruit purity, impressive weight and a velvety texture with silky tannins. A stunning example of Adelaide Hills Pinot Noir that has attracted high acclaim, our limited stocks will not last long.
“96 Points. This is comprised entirely of Lenswood fruit and the average vine age is 30-plus years. I anticipate the release of this wine from Murdoch Hill's 'space' series each year. Medium weight with dialled-up concentration, raspberry, apple fruit leather, subtle clove and cinnamon spice, an earthy moss character with dried leaves strewn atop. The tannins pull everything inward, concentrating the flavours of the wine further, suggesting a long life ahead. A beautiful reminder and promise of the potential of the region.”- Katrina Butler, The Wine Companion.
“95 Points. Reticent on first pour with tight lines of dark cherry, earth, forest floor and nutmeg. It’s quite tightly wound, though a good swirl of the glass unlocks more earthy and autumnal notes along with some sweet pops of wild raspberry. It’s savoury and dark aromatically, but the palate has a cooling cherry pit mineral feel with great intensity. Dark cherry, earth, brown spice and subtle raspberry are promptly wrapped up in firm, sappy tannins and long, persistent dark cherry acidity. Wonderfully poised, clean and fresh through the finish. Time in the cellar will reward.”- Tom Kline, Inside Burgundy.
