Pettavel Estate traces its historic roots back to 1842, when Swiss-born vigneron David Pettavel, arrived in Port Phillip aboard the ship Platina. Bringing with him the premium Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier cuttings from Dijon, he partnered with Brequet to establish the pioneering “Neuchâtel Vineyard” in Geelong. Pettavel Estate played a pivotal role in the resurgence of the Geelong wine region from the 1960s onwards. Today, Pettavel remains the largest vineyard in the region.

In 2013, Pettavel expanded its footprint by acquiring an 80-hectare premium vineyard in the Yarra Valley. With a total of 210 hectares across the Port Phillip Bay, Pettavel ranks among the largest premium winery estates in Victoria.

This one is right up there with the best of them. Typically, a brilliant, red, crimson-y colour leads you into an aroma mix of dominant cherry and a spicy mulberry, slightly raspberry influence. On the palate, there‘s a plush, velvety feel, but there‘s also tannin in here, balanced with some nice oak treatment, so it has the structure to support all that wonderful fruit. It‘s a wine that‘s just in its youth now, but it has the structure and poise to handle further cellaring. An excellent wine. Drink to: 2025-2035; Alcohol: 13.5%; Price: $35.00; Rating: 94 Points; Ray Jordan