Holyman Pinot Noir 2024

It was great to re-visit Joe Holyman's 2024 estate block pinot when he popped into the shop to show us his stable of wines in September 2026. The extra year from the previous tasting has really benefited the integration of the 30% new oak. Fragrant and lifted, it really draws you in on the nose with a spice profile (70% whole bunches) sitting so wonderfully alongside it's clearly defined black cherry fruit.  Mineral and energetic, it has a line of acidity that pulsates right through the middle of the palate which is a real signature of Joe's wines. Soft framing tannin on the close, can thoroughly recommend, I had to have a second tasting on the day I enjoyed it so much. Cameron Roebuck, FWC.

The 2024 Holyman Pinot Noir features wholly estate grown fruit from 39-year-old dry-grown vines (a small 0.6-hectare block). The wine was matured in new French oak puncheons (30%), while the remainder saw one- to two-year-old oak. Aromatically, the wine leads with pomegranate and vanilla paste, pressed rose petals, blood orange/chinotto and bramble. In the mouth, this has levity and clarity—the former is surprising given the potency of the aromatics. This is an elegant wine—it lingers. 12% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. 94 points, Erin Larkin, The Wine Advocate.

Cherry, dark raspberry, mint and earth, a spicy cinnamon and floral perfume too. It’s medium-bodied, well-etched with fine but firm tannin, quite ‘minerally’ too, an Earl Grey tea and floral mouth-perfume, crisp yet strict on a finish of excellent length. Oak shows a bit at present, though it won’t later. Very good. 95 pts, Gary Walsh, The Wine Front.