Around the world with Pinot Noir
For me, Pinot Noir isn’t just a wine—it’s a lifelong passion. From my first sip, I was captivated by its complexity, versatility, and its ability to express the nuances of place like no other variety. It’s a grape that demands patience, but when treated with care, the rewards are undeniable. Whether I’m enjoying it slightly chilled on a warm day or pairing it with a rich meal, Pinot Noir never fails to deliver something special.
Each region puts its own stamp on this high-maintenance, but deeply rewarding variety. From the refined elegance of Tasmania to the bold intensity of Central Otago, every glass tells a different story. Here are some of my favourite Pinot Noirs from around the world—each one a testament to the beauty and diversity of this remarkable grape.
Pinot Noir tells the story of its place and winemaker, evolving beautifully over time. Cheers to exploring Pinot Noir, one glass at a time!
CENTRAL OTAGO
Bold and Beautiful
Central Otago is renowned for creating intense, dark fruit wines balanced with elegance. A standout is Maude Pinot Noir, created by my great friend and winemaker Sarah-Kate Dineen. As she describes it, this wine has both punch and poise, showcasing the best of the region’s signature depth and complexity.
From $36.00 / maudewines.com
TASMANIA
Elegance and Precision
Tasmania is one of Australia’s most exciting Pinot Noir regions. Its cool climate produces wines with bright acidity and delicate red fruit. A standout is 10 Minutes by Tractor Pinot Noir, which showcases floral perfume, rich red fruits—strawberry and cherry—alongside gamey, earthy, and spice undertones. On the palate, it is concentrated, textured, and lingers with silky fine tannins and a graphite-like edge.
From $40 / tenminutesbytractor.com.au
WAIPARA VALLEY
A Different Expression
New Zealand’s Pinot Noir is often associated with Central Otago’s intensity, but Pegasus Bay Pinot Noir 2021 from Waipara in North Canterbury offers something different. It leans toward red fruit, with a savoury palate, a touch of spice, and velvety tannins. Pegasus Bay is regarded as one of New Zealand’s finest, balancing power and elegance with a more refined, savoury style.
From $65 / winestar.com.au
WILLAMETTE VALLEY
The New World’s Burgundy
Oregon’s Willamette Valley is often compared to Burgundy, thanks to its cool climate and expressive Pinot Noirs. I fell in love with Pike Road Pinot Noir, a wine that embodies the refinement I aim to emulate with Lisa McGuigan Platinum Pinot Noir.
From $70 / vivino.com
BURGUNDY
The Home of Pinot Noir
Burgundy is synonymous with Pinot Noir, producing wines that are lighter in style with higher acidity and delicate red fruit flavours. When people refer to Red Burgundy, they are talking about Pinot Noir. These wines are elegant, complex, and some of the most sought-after in the world. My good friends at Vera’s Wine Store and Artisanal Cellars have a fantastic selection of Burgundian Pinot Noirs worth exploring.
From $70 / verawine.com.au
MCLAREN VALE
My Own Expression
McLaren Vale, better known for bold reds, also offers unique Pinot Noirs. Lisa McGuigan Platinum McLaren Vale Pinot Noir offers a richer style that some of its cooler climate counterparts. This wine is crafted with passion and showcases the region’s character with depth and elegance.
From $35 / vanpimerooms.com.au
BENDIGO, VICTORIA
A Single Vineyard Star
For single vineyard lovers, Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir 2022 is a must-try. This wine delivers forest fruit aromas, dark fruit, and spice, woven together with refreshing acidity and a long, silky texture. It’s a stunning expression of Bendigo’s terroir and displays the complexity the region has to offer.
From $87 / valliwineshop.com.au
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Story Lisa McGuigan
