The 2024 Elanto Vineyard Pinot Noir is one of the most exciting new releases from the Mornington Peninsula and a wine that has quickly established cult status among Australian Pinot Noir collectors. Founded by Elizabeth and Tony Todaro with renowned winemaker Sandro Mosele, Elanto is based in Balnarring and planted at an extraordinary density of over 11,000 vines per hectare—approximately four times the regional norm. This Burgundian-inspired approach produces naturally low yields, concentration and exceptional vineyard expression.
The 2024 release is a blend of five individual Pinot Noir parcels—Vertex, Ironstone, Chicory, Kilnside and Basalt—each harvested and vinified separately before final blending. Fermentation occurred naturally in concrete tanks with a small proportion of whole bunches, followed by maturation in French oak barriques, approximately 25% new. The high-density vineyard plantings provide abundant natural tannin, allowing for gentle extraction and preserving aromatic purity.
The nose is intensely perfumed and complex, offering wild strawberry, dark cherry and raspberry layered with autumn leaves, rose petal, chinotto, rhubarb and exotic spice. The aromatic profile is remarkably sophisticated for such a young wine, combining floral lift with earthy Mornington Peninsula complexity.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied yet impressively structured, with vibrant acidity and finely detailed chalky tannins framing the fruit. Flavours of wild berries, dark cherry, spice and savoury earth unfold across a beautifully balanced framework. There is depth, energy and a subtle amaro-like bitterness on the finish that adds complexity and length. Jane Faulkner awarded the wine 97 points, praising its poise, integrated oak and significant ageing potential.
Despite being only the second Pinot Noir release from Elanto, the wine has already drawn comparisons with some of the Mornington Peninsula’s elite producers. Critics have highlighted its remarkable maturity, complexity and site expression, while Elanto itself was named Halliday Wine Companion's Best New Winery shortly after its debut releases.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is one of the most exciting new Australian Pinot Noir projects we have seen in years. Compared to many Mornington Peninsula Pinots, Elanto shows greater structure and tannin definition thanks to its ultra-high-density vineyard design. Compared to Central Otago Pinot Noir, it is more savoury and mineral-driven; compared to Burgundy, it combines New World fruit purity with a distinctly Old World sense of restraint and complexity. The 2024 vintage is a serious collector’s wine that dramatically overdelivers for a second release. Drink from 2026 onwards or cellar comfortably for 10–15+ years. Perfect with duck, quail, game birds, mushroom dishes or refined modern Australian cuisine.
