Stonier is situated in Victoria’s picturesque Mornington Peninsula. The first Chardonnay was planted in 1978 and Pinot Noir in 1982. Over more than 25 years later, Stonier has developed a reputation as a producer of exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Stonier Pinot Noir is sourced from a select group of hand tended vineyards located amongst the rolling hills of the Mornington Peninsula. The Peninsula’s unique geography and cool maritime conditions contribute to a highly distinctive expression of Pinot Noir, typically showing flavours of vibrant cherry to savoury plum within a fine tannin structure.

Even as a young wine there is a nice textural aspect of integrated flavour and tannin, with a fruit spectrum that is more dark cherry and brooding raspberry, rather than bright red fruits. There is an appealing savoury tannin framework which will no doubt become more expansive together with the palate over the coming 12 months and beyond.

Buy this, cellar it, drink it. I’ve loved this ‘standard’ Stonier Pinot Noir for decades but I dare say that this is the best release that I’ve tried. Sheesh. It’s complex, it’s cohesive, it’s balanced and it feels authentic, the latter both to its variety and to its region. Mostly and ultimately though it’s more-ish. It’s cherried and strawberried and plummy and sweet spiced, with soil or undergrowth notes interwoven. Tannin profile is top notch, and the balance between juicy drinkability and tension is so perfectly judged. Last year’s releases gave an excellent insight into the uptick of Stonier but this year’s releases take things up again. Date: May 2026; Alcohol: 13.5%; Price: $45; Closure: Screwcap; Drink: 2026-2032+; Rated: 95 Points; Campbell Mattinson; The Wine Front

There’s volume, there’s flavour, there’s definition, there’s delight with every sip. Wonderful aromas of florals, autumn leaves, wood spices and warm earth filter through to the mid-weighted palate. In wait, dark cherries, pips, blood orange zest, chinotto and spicy oak, with textural tannins and lively acidity. There's much more detail coming through this vintage. Nice one. Date: Feb 2026; Alcohol: 13.5%; Price: $45.00; Drink by: 2035; Rating: 95 Points & Special Value Star; James Halliday Wine Companion