ELANTO BALNARRING PINOT NOIR 2024 - red

Style : Savoury & DetailedWhat started as a blank canvas in '18, a 22-hectare site at Balnarring with stunning views overlooking Western Port Bay and Phillip Island, has morphed into Australia’s most exciting, exacting vineyard and wine enterprise. Elanto is also the country’s largest high-density vineyard, taking in 10.6 hectares, which have only been planted to chardonnay and pinot noir. It is the brainchild of vigneron Sandro Mosele, who has been backed all the way by co-owners Elizabeth and Tony Todaro of Clevertronics fame, an emergency lighting specialist based in Melbourne. The trio are committed to producing the finest pinot noir and chardonnay with the focus on the vineyard comprising 11 111 vines per ha, spaced 1.2m by 0.75m, eschewing herbicides and largely adopting organic principles. It is precision viticulture with the work hands-on and labour intensive, yet no expense has been spared. The winery is aesthetically pleasing and state-of-the-art, with functionality still ruling. Proof is always in the wine – the inaugural releases of the 2023 vintage are exceptional. What a beguiling wine – only the second release and showing complexity far beyond its years. It’s certainly youthful and pretty with heady aromas of florals and autumn leaves with flavours of wild strawberries, dark cherries and pips, chinotto, Middle Eastern spices and some poached rhubarb, too. The medium-bodied palate is evenly poised, laden with filigree tannins (lots of them) and energising acidity; oak (25% new) completely integrated. This has depth, some grip, a little amaro bitterness on the finish and, of utmost importance, it will age but it’s oh-so pleasing to drink today. JANE FAULKNER, Wine CompanionRegion : Mornington Peninsula, VICTORIAVariety : Pinot Noir ABV: 13.5%Liquor Act 2007. It is against the law to sell or supply alcohol to, or to obtain alcohol on behalf of a person under the age of 18 years. Lic No. LIQP770016424 *We endeavour to ensure the correct vintage is displayed, however some variations may occur in store and for delivered bottles.