94 Points - Katrina Butler
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 2025 Murdoch Hill Adelaide Hills Pinot Noir is sourced from the high altitude Piccadilly Valley and Lenswood sub regions of the Adelaide Hills, the high elevation and large diurnal shift in temperature provide a very cool environment to produce quality Pinot Noir. Opening with classic lifted aromas of cherry fruits and savoury spice, the palate is packed with juicy strawberry and dark cherry flavours, supported by fruits sappy fine tannins and lively acidity.
"94 Points. One-third estate fruit, the rest from growers in the Piccadilly Valley and Lenswood regions. MV6, D5V12, 114 and 115 for the clone nerds; 15% whole bunch and 15% new French oak. There's an elegance to this release. A delicate floral perfume awakens the senses first, followed by crunchy red fruit, cherry, cranberry and pomegranate. There's a wildness to it, too, polish and poise, yes, but not too much. A forest forage, you'd say. Add a dusting of dried herbs and a gentle release of orange oil, not unlike a Negroni, and you have one very smart Hills pinot."- Katrina Butler, Halliday Wine Companion.
