Tolpuddle Pinot Noir 2022

Winemaking and Drinking

Origins and Vineyard

The Tolpuddle Pinot Noir 2022 hails from the esteemed Tolpuddle Vineyard, located in Tasmania’s Coal River Valley. Established in 1988, this vineyard quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The vineyard's name pays homage to the Tolpuddle Martyrs, a group of 19th-century English laborers who fought for workers' rights and were subsequently exiled to Tasmania. Their legacy of resilience and determination is echoed in the meticulous care and precision that define Tolpuddle’s winemaking process.

The Coal River Valley is renowned for its cool climate, which is ideal for growing Pinot Noir. The vineyard benefits from a combination of sunny days, cool nights, and a long growing season, allowing the grapes to develop a complex array of flavors. The soil composition is equally critical, with a mix of sandy loam over sandstone providing excellent drainage and a unique minerality that imparts distinctive characteristics to the wine.

Winemaking 

The 2022 vintage saw near-perfect growing conditions, with a temperate spring and a mild, dry summer. These conditions allowed the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, preserving their natural acidity and intensifying their flavors. The grapes were handpicked at optimal ripeness and sorted meticulously to ensure only the best fruit was used.

The winemaking process at Tolpuddle is a blend of traditional and modern techniques. After harvesting, the grapes underwent a cold soak to extract maximum color and flavor before being fermented using wild yeasts. The wine was then aged in French oak barrels, of which 30% were new, for ten months. This careful aging process added depth and complexity without overwhelming the delicate fruit flavors.

Tasting Notes

The Tolpuddle Pinot Noir 2022 is a vibrant and expressive wine, showcasing the best attributes of its terroir. On the nose, it offers an enticing bouquet of red cherry, raspberry, and cranberry, interwoven with subtle hints of rose petals, forest floor, and a touch of spice from the oak aging. These aromas are underpinned by a delicate minerality that reflects the vineyard’s unique soil composition.

On the palate, the wine is elegantly structured, with fine-grained tannins and a lively acidity that provides balance and length. Flavors of red fruit dominate, complemented by notes of earthy truffle, dried herbs, and a hint of smokiness. The finish is long and persistent, with a harmonious blend of fruit, tannin, and acidity that promises excellent aging potential.

Awards and Accolades

The 2022 vintage has already garnered significant acclaim both domestically and internationally. It was awarded a gold medal at the prestigious Royal Melbourne Wine Awards, where judges praised its complexity and finesse. Additionally, it received a 96-point rating from James Halliday’s Wine Companion, cementing its status as one of Australia’s premier Pinot Noirs.

Internationally, the Tolpuddle Pinot Noir 2022 has been recognized with a silver medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) in London, highlighting its global appeal and exceptional quality. It has also been featured in several prominent wine publications, including Decanter and Wine Spectator, further establishing its reputation on the world stage.

The Tolpuddle Pinot Noir 2022 is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and exceptional terroir of the Coal River Valley. With its complex bouquet, elegant structure, and impressive list of accolades, it stands as a shining example of what Tasmanian Pinot Noir can achieve. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future enjoyment, this wine promises to deliver a memorable experience for any connoisseur.