Founded in 1921 by the legendary Maurice O’Shea, whose contribution to Australian wine cannot be understated. Widely recognised for setting the standard for modern Australian winemaking, his ‘fanatical perfectionism’ saw him create Mount Pleasant’s signature style of elegance, balance and exceptional longevity. For 100 years, Mount Pleasant has produced iconic, elegant and expressive wines championing the fruit and individual character of our four vineyard sites. The rare ancestral vines include some of the oldest clone plantings in the country. This makes the Old Hill vineyard, while best known for Shiraz, the oldest Pinot Noir vineyard in Australia.

Handpicked in three passes through the vineyard, only selecting the perfect bunches on each run. The fruit was destemmed to small open fermenters for a brief cold soaking period where intense colour was gained immediately. Fermented at 18-25 ?C for approximately 9 days. Gently pressed to large format French oak barrels (~20% new) for almost 12 months maturation, before blending and bottling. Deep purple. Intense dark fruits coupled with lovely spice and red berries. Structural with powerful fruit, a long intense palate with seamless tannin.

Intense red fruits of raspberry, mulberry and blueberry all combine with classic Rosehill violet notes with some subtle spice from maturation in wood.

The palate is expansive and gently fruity, with excellent fruit clarity and softness. Overall, the wine is beautifully lemony and full-flavoured. Multi-vineyard sourcing, including from the Soldier Settler vineyard in the Broke Fordwich subregion. Hand-picked fruit, cool-ferment and early bottling to preserve freshness. Alcohol: 11.5%. Closure: screwcap. Date tasted: Feb 2024. Drink: 2024-2029. Price: $48. Rating: 96/100.

This wine is dark ruby red in colour and displays ripe cabernet aromas of tomato bush and red fruits, complemented by earthy Merlot tones of plum and mulberry. Fine tannins and the subtle use of oak give the palate a soft lingering finish.