The cool-climate of the Adelaide Hills has proven to be a haven for Pinot Noir and is quickly establishing a reputation akin to the benchmark Australian regions. Tim Knappstein from Riposte harnesses the qualities of the region and the varietal with effortless ease with his The Sabre. Bright colour in the glass is followed by a lifted floral nose with a savoury edge. The palate is fresh, clean and superbly powerful. A delight.

Nanny Goat Vineyard is the clear leader of the pack when it comes to affordable Central Otago Pinot Noir. Made in a fruit forward style with mounds of fresh berry fruit and intense lifted perfume notes of violet and blueberry. Still medium-bodied on the palate with soft, powdery tannin, this is a Pinot for the moment.

Lindsay McCall has produced a seriously concentrated Mornington Pinot with spicy cherry fruit great cedary oak and a finish that will leave you wanting more. Fantastic value!

This vibrant NZ Pinot shows earthy forest floor notes and dark cherries on the nose. Richly textured on the palate the flavours have elements of wild berries mushroom and chocolate framed by quality French oak.

This expressive Pinot Noir from Eden Road displays intensity and lifted aromas of red cherries, currants and clovey spice. The palate is concentrated in bright red fruits, dark plum and warm spices, with good structured acidity, embedded in silky, plush tannins. All follows through with great length and richness in flavour.

This stylish Pinot from New Zealand is outstanding value. The nose exhibits wild strawberry, cherry and spice aromas and the palate has rich complex varietal flavours with lovely velvety texture. Pinot lovers take note!

The winery is located near Carcassonne in the Languedoc-Roussillon. Domaine Pennautier 1620 Pinot Noir is a medium light red is made from 100% Pinot Noir grape. Delicate and complex on the palate, with aromas of dark forest fruits.

Victoria's first vineyard is a landmark in the Yarra Valley and an icon of the Australian wine industry. Loads of lovely Pinot character on the nose with ripe cherry gamey notes and hints of "forest floor". Silky in texture the lingering flavour is enhanced by a touch of oak.

From the Yarra Valley comes this benchmark Pinot from one of the country's best regions for the variety. Sweet berry fruit and forest floor characters are balanced by depth and length of flavour.

From Kate Goodman's team, who already bring us the wonderful Punt Rd range, this second label perpetuates their well deserved reputation. This is a soft, fruit driven Pinot from sites around the Yarra Valley. It offers great complexity at this price.