Cool to cold climate/Elevation 5-35m This beautiful stretch of coastline may well become Australia’s pre-eminent Pinot Noir region. Certainly the wines of Freycinet illustrate the extraordinary promise of this capricious grape variety. Centred near the fishing port of Bicheno, famous for abalone, and the early penal colony of Maria Island, the soils are generally granitic with a high iron content. The best vineyards lie in protected slopes as the prevailing cold south and southeast winds can hinder growth. The Moulting Lagoon, a substantial body of water, moderates the microclimate particularly in autumn. Frost is non-existent and rainfall is erratic. Pinot Noir It is far too early to point to regional style. However, Freycinet is making the most exquisitely beautiful Pinot Noir showing plenty of ripe cherry, meaty aromas and silky textured palate. Andrew Caillard MW, Langton's