Garagiste Le Stagiaire Pinot Noir 2024 750ml

The 2024 Garagiste Le Stagiaire Pinot Noir from Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula is a standout example of cool-climate winemaking, offering exceptional value and character. Crafted by winemaker Barnaby Flanders, this vintage harmoniously blends fruit from several esteemed sites such as  Merricks, Balnarring & Red Hill. The inclusion of 30 year old Dijon clones from Merricks North imparts plushness and aromatic lift complementing the structure and depth provided by the MV6 clones from the other vineyards. 

Tasting Notes
This Pinot Noir presents a vibrant bouquet of red cherries, violets, and baking spices, with subtle hints of forest floor and a touch of amaro-like bitterness adding complexity. On the palate, it is juicy and elegant, featuring layers of cherry and strawberry flavors intertwined with fresh herbs and spice. The wine is supported by fine-grained tannins and bright acidity, culminating in a long, refreshing finish. 

With an alcohol content of 13.5%, this wine is approachable now and is expected to evolve gracefully over the next 5–6 years. It pairs beautifully with dishes like herb-crusted lamb rack, roasted duck with cherry glaze, or aged cheddar

Winemaking Details
The grapes underwent spontaneous fermentation in concrete and stainless steel vessels, with whole berries and a 5% whole-bunch component. After 21 days on skins, the wine matured on its lees in 300-litre hogsheads for seven months, with just 5% new oak. It was bottled without fining or filtration, preserving its purity and complexity. 

Halliday Wine Companion - 95 Points

Don’t overthink this. It’s a delicious, well-made and pleasing pinot. Nothing out of place, with a neat combo of florals, red cherries, baking spices galore and some woodsy notes, too. And it's a little autumnal. Some amaro/Angostura bitters pop out, adding a touch of exotica. A neat layer of textural tannins, mouth-watering acidity and refreshment throughout.-Jane Faulkner.