Ray Nadeson describes Ménage à Noir Pinot Noir as “Lethbridge-lite”; we prefer to think of it as the opening act to this producer’s impressive suite of Pinot Noirs. It’s a blend of sites, but the lion’s share (88%) comes from Jack and Lois Doeven’s cool site in Drumborg (Henty). This low-yielding vineyard with well-established vines was planted in schist soils in the 1980s. The balance of the fruit comes from Geelong. The destemmed fruit ferments in a 3,000-litre wooden fermenter with regular pumpovers. The wine then matures in a mixture of old and new (approximately 10%) French oak of various sizes (225, 300 and 2,500 litres). This is bright, fresh and vibrant with signature Lethbridge energy and raciness balanced nicely by ripe berry fruits, earthy spice and a crunchy, sappy, lasting finish. A real winner.

From a cool Henty vineyard kept aside for its distinct ginger spice characters, this is the first vintage of this single site Pinot Gris. Wild fermented with a touch of skin contact in new French oak, aged in foudre. Orange blossom, pickled ginger, tea, saline edge from limestone soils. Linear and layered with tension and gentle phenolic texture.

The Lethbridge JD Henty Pinot Noir 2023 is a beautiful expression of terroir from the Henty region of Victoria. This vintage showcases the exceptional winemaking skills of Lethbridge Wines in producing a truly exceptional Pinot Noir. On the nose, aromas of ripe cherry, raspberry, and cranberry mingle with hints of earthy forest floor and delicate floral notes. The wine is a beautiful medium ruby hue, with a slight translucent quality. On the palate, the wine offers a lovely balance of fruit and acidity, with well-integrated tannins. Flavors of red berries, vanilla, and subtle spice linger on the finish, leaving a pleasant and lingering impression. This Pinot Noir is a true testament to the quality of Henty's cool climate and Lethbridge's meticulous attention to detail. It is a wine that is sure to impress and delight any discerning palate.