William Downie Cathedral Pinot Noir 2024

Drink it now or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant, but best to open it half an hour before service.

William Downie is considered one of Australia’s most talented Pinot Noir producers. Following various experiences as a winemaker for other wineries, William decided to establish his own project in the Gippsland region, an area that offers unique conditions for growing top-quality Pinot Noir.

Cathedral Pinot Noir is crafted from grapes selected from vineyards across the region (including Upper Goulburn, King Valley, the Alpine Valleys, and the Mornington Peninsula), situated between 70 and 350 meters above sea level. The soils are diverse, ranging from the red volcanic earth found at the Bluestone Lake and Mrs Nicks vineyards to the ancient sandstone and shale of the Little Cathedral Farm plot. Following harvest, the wine undergoes spontaneous fermentation in a combination of wooden and steel vessels, then rests in stainless steel tanks prior to bottling.

On the nose, the wine reveals a fresh and exuberant aromatic profile, with vibrant notes of small red fruits and cherries, hibiscus flowers, and delicate spices. On the palate, it is juicy, lively, and light. It possesses a graceful, easy-drinking character. It’s elegant, with a pleasant vein of acidity and a smooth texture. The finish is long and gently savory. Try it with a mixed charcuterie board or pan-seared quail.