TILLIE J PINOT NOIR 2025 - red

Style: Spicy & BrightNatillie (Tillie) Johnston began her career in ’12, one of the vintage crew at Coldstream Hills, and says her love for pinot noir began there. She then spent 4 of the next 8 years drifting between the Northern and Southern hemispheres working for an all-star cast of wineries: Leeuwin Estate, Brokenwood, Cristom (Oregon), Keller (Rheinhessen), Framingham (Marlborough), and Yarra Yering. While working in the winemaking team at Giant Steps, she took the opportunity to buy 2t of grapes from Helen’s Hill of whatever variety she chose, which was, of course, pinot noir. The range has since expanded to Yarra Valley chardonnay, with a Langhorne Creek grenache in the mix, too. Though arguably her aligoté has fast become the fan favourite. -JAMES HALLIDAYFrom two vineyards in Gruyere, both MV6 clone. 10% new oak, one third whole bunch, carbonic fermentation for three days. 436 dozen produced.This is a fresh and crunchy expression of Pinot Noir, almost into a frisky Beaujolais style in a way. Red fruits, spice, a floral and nutty character too. It’s light to medium-bodied, spicy and fresh, a little graphite grip to tannin, slightly sappy and gently herbal, with a bright finish of good length. Refreshing and energetic. Nice to drink, albeit a little low key and bony for a Pinot Noir. Fun now, likely just a little bit more serious and settled later on. GARY WALSH, The Wine FrontOne-third whole bunches and matured in 10% new barriques. A medium, bright cherry-red. Aromas of cherry, pressed flowers and spice; noticeably richer than the '24. Gently plush, the palate fans out nicely before finishing with grippy, well-formed tannins. Better with air and will continue to improve over the next few years. Nicely done, as always. PHILLIP RICH, Wine CompanionRegion: Yarra Valley, VICTORIAVariety: Pinot NoirABV: 12%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.