Profound, Earthy, and Wildly Expressive - A Biodynamic Pinot Noir of Real Character

Hochkirch Maximus Pinot Noir 2022 is an exceptional small-batch release from one of Australia’s most respected natural and biodynamic producers. Sourced from estate-grown vines in Henty, this wine speaks clearly of place, cool-climate intensity, fine tannin structure, and remarkable savoury complexity. Crafted with minimal intervention, wild yeast fermentation, and no fining or filtration, it’s a pure, living expression of terroir and craftsmanship.

Halliday Wine Companion - 95 Points 

20% whole bunches and fermented in small open vats. A deep garnet. Brooding with aromas of dark fruits, forest floor scents, violets and clove. Unlike the Tarrington Pinot from the same vintage, the palate here is more mineral driven and savoury, with firm yet balanced tannins adding up to a wine that is just hinting at its future potential. There's a lot to like here and it'll be fascinating to watch its evolution over the next six to eight years, if not longer. Philip Rich 

Tasting Notes

• Aroma: Dark cherry, redcurrant, and wild strawberry with notes of clove, dried herbs, and forest floor.

• Palate: Silky yet powerful, showing vibrant red fruit, earthy spice, and subtle whole-bunch lift.

• Finish: Long, textural, and savoury with mineral precision and gentle tannin grip.

Food Pairing / Serving Suggestions

Perfect with duck confit, roasted beetroot, mushroom dishes, or game bird. Serve lightly chilled to accentuate its freshness and aromatic complexity.

About the Winery

Located in Tarrington, Victoria’s cool-climate Henty region, Hochkirch Wines is run by Ian and Fiona Hochkirch, pioneers of biodynamic viticulture in Australia. Their vineyards are Demeter-certified and dry-grown, with all wines made using natural fermentation and minimal sulphur. The Maximus Pinot Noir represents the estate’s pinnacle release, intense, structured, and age-worthy, showcasing the power and purity of their unique limestone soils.

Cellaring Potential

Enjoy now for its youthful vibrancy or cellar confidently to 2035 for tertiary complexity and earthy development.

Collector’s Note

Hochkirch wines are highly sought after by collectors of natural and biodynamic wines, with past Maximus releases receiving 95+ points from Halliday Wine Companion and praise from The Real Review for their texture and longevity. The 2022 vintage continues this tradition ,a benchmark for Henty Pinot Noir.

Details

• Winery: Hochkirch Wines

• Vintage: 2022

• Variety: Pinot Noir

• Region: Henty, Victoria, Australia

• Classification: Biodynamic Estate Pinot Noir

• Certifications: Demeter Certified Biodynamic, Sustainable, Minimal Intervention