The 2025 Bannockburn Pinot Noir is a benchmark Geelong Pinot Noir from one of Australia’s most iconic estates. Drawn from estate vineyards planted between 1976 and 2007, including the famed Olive Tree Hill, Stuart Block and De La Terre vineyards, the wine combines fruit from mature vines and multiple Pinot Noir clones to capture the full character of the Bannockburn site.
The 2025 vintage was Bannockburn’s earliest harvest on record, producing wines of exceptional clarity, concentration and structural precision. Hand-picked fruit was wild fermented with approximately 20% whole bunches before maturation in French oak (around 25% new) for 10 months.
The nose is complex and savoury, showing black cherry, dark raspberry and wild strawberry alongside woodsmoke, roasted spice, chicory, forest floor and dried herbs. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with impressive depth and tension, combining dark cherry and berry fruit with fine-grained tannins, bright acidity and a distinctly earthy, mineral character. The finish is long, savoury and beautifully structured, reflecting Bannockburn’s signature balance between power and finesse.
Critics have been highly enthusiastic. Campbell Mattinson awarded 95 points, describing it as a particularly earthy, savoury Pinot Noir with fine tannins and excellent cellaring potential, while noting its "genuine savoury push of flavour through the finish."
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, Bannockburn Pinot Noir remains one of the benchmarks for Australian Pinot Noir. Compared to many Mornington Peninsula examples, it is more savoury and earth-driven; compared to Central Otago Pinot Noir, it is less fruit-sweet and more structured. The 2025 vintage is especially impressive for its combination of concentration, freshness and classic Bannockburn character. This is a serious Pinot Noir that can be enjoyed young with decanting but will reward patience over the next decade or more. Drink from 2027 onwards or cellar comfortably for 10–15+ years. Perfect with duck, quail, roast lamb, mushroom dishes and fine modern Australian cuisine.
