Whisson Lake White Label Pinot Noir, Adelaide Hills

Tucked high on the steep slopes of the Carey Gully in the Adelaide Hills, Whisson Lake sits at an altitude of nearly 500 metres. Planted in 1985 on shallow, gravelly soils, these dry-grown vines face cold night winds and bright daylight, forcing the roots deep into the earth. This extreme terroir yields small, concentrated crops that define the house style.

In the winery, gentle handling protects the delicate nature of the fruit. Whole bunches undergo ambient fermentation in open wooden vats, followed by maturation in fine French oak punchons. Minimal intervention ensures the vineyard's distinct identity takes centre stage, producing a Pinot Noir that values balance and structural precision over raw power.

The nose opens with red cherry, dried cranberry, and underlying notes of forest floor and wild thyme. On the palate, bright acidity supports fine, silken tannins, delivering layered flavours of pomegranate and spiced plum. It is a persistent, refined cool-climate wine built for immediate pleasure or careful cellaring.