The 2023 Lethbridge Hat Rock Pinot Noir is sourced from the Hat Rock Vineyard on the Bellarine Peninsula, a bayside site planted on black clay over limestone near Portarlington. Crafted by Ray Nadeson and Maree Collis, the wine is hand-picked, wild fermented with around 50% whole bunches and matured in French oak, capturing the depth, perfume and structure that have made this vineyard one of Geelong’s standout Pinot Noir sites.
The nose is fragrant and refined, offering black cherry, wild strawberry, spice, citrus peel and fresh herbs. The palate is silky and precise, with pure red and dark fruits, fine tannins and a mineral edge that carries through a long, elegant finish. The cool 2023 vintage has delivered exceptional balance and freshness. James Suckling awarded the wine 95 points, praising its purity, texture and finely tuned structure.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A beautifully poised cool-climate Pinot Noir that combines power with finesse. Its vibrant fruit, savoury complexity and mineral freshness make it an excellent match for duck, roast pork, game birds, mushroom dishes or grilled salmon. Enjoy now with a decant or cellar confidently through 2035 and beyond.
