2010 William Downie Mornington Peninsula Pinot Noir

This is a rare, fully mature library vintage from one of Australia’s preeminent natural and low-intervention Pinot Noir masters: the William Downie Mornington Peninsula Pinot Noir 2010, topped with its signature green wax seal. Renowned for crafting uncompromising, site-transparent Pinot Noirs across Victoria with wild yeasts, whole-bunch fermentation, and zero fining or filtration, Bill Downie captured the maritime chill and red basalt soils of the Mornington Peninsula in this classic, high-acclaimed 2010 season. Now resting at peak maturity, the wine opens with an intoxicating, ethereal bouquet of dried red cherries, wild strawberry compote, and blood orange peel, seamlessly layered with damp forest floor sous-bois, dried rose petals, black tea, subtle Asian spices, and game. On the palate, it is medium-bodied, silky, and profoundly savory, featuring melted, velvety tannins integrated with a vibrant vein of cool-climate maritime acidity that drives an extended, perfumed, and mineral finish.

Highlights

• Vintage: 2010

• Region/Appellation: Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia

• Producer: William Downie

• Grape: 100% Pinot Noir

• Style: Fully Mature, Artisanal, Ethereal, and Savory Cult Australian Pinot Noir

• Perfect for (food pairing): Fine cuts of slow-roasted rack of lamb with a delicate rosemary and herb crust, pan-seared duck breast with a spiced cherry reduction, roasted squab, pan-fried quail, or tender venison loin. Its complex tertiary depth of sous-bois, leather, and Asian spice also makes it an extraordinary partner for truffled wild mushroom risotto, slow-braised pork belly, duck confit, or a curated selection of mature artisanal cheeses such as an aged Comté or Gruyère.