Australian Pinot Noir Challenge

The Australian Pinot Noir Challenge is a prestigious wine competition dedicated exclusively to Pinot Noir, one of the most expressive and highly regarded grape varieties. This event brings together Pinot Noir producers from across Australia, allowing them to showcase their wines and highlight the unique characteristics of their regional styles. If you want to find out the best Pinot Noir in Australia, you must follow this competition. 

Regional Winners 2024

• Geelong – 2023 Bellbrae Estate Bird Rock Pinot Noir
• Gippsland – 2023 Dirty Three ‘Dirt 2’ Pinot Noir
• Great Southern – 2023 Marchand & Birch Mount Barrow Pinot Noir
• Manjimup – 2023 Lonely Shore DeiTos Vineyard Pinot Noir
• Mornington Peninsula - 2023 Montalto Single Vineyard Tuerong Pinot Noir
• Yarra Valley – 2023 Giant Steps Sexton Vineyard Pinot Noir 
• Tasmania – 2023 Bremley Vineyard Pinot Noir

What Makes It Unique?

Unlike general wine shows, which judge multiple varieties, the Australian Pinot Noir Challenge is focused entirely on Pinot Noir. This means every entry is assessed alongside wines of the same variety, offering a clear picture of how Australian Pinot Noir is evolving and which regions and producers are excelling.

Regions in the Challenge

Pinot Noir thrives in cooler climates, and the competition sees strong entries from regions such as:

• Yarra Valley (VIC) – Known for elegant, perfumed Pinot Noirs with great balance.
• Mornington Peninsula (VIC) – Produces refined, silky Pinots with bright red fruit flavors.
• Tasmania – Recognized for its vibrant acidity and complex cool-climate expressions.
• Adelaide Hills (SA) – Delivers fresh, aromatic, and often delicate Pinot Noir.
• Macedon Ranges (VIC) – Produces structured, age-worthy Pinots with great intensity.
• Great Southern (WA) – A rising star, known for its expressive and complex Pinot Noir.

How the Challenge Works

• Blind Tasting Judging Process – A panel of expert judges, including winemakers, sommeliers, and wine critics, evaluates the wines without knowing their labels.
• Regional Trophies & Awards – Wines compete within their regional categories, and the best are awarded regional trophies. The standout wine overall receives the title of Best Australian Pinot Noir.

Chair Of Judges

Tom Carson is one of Australia’s most highly praised winemakers and viticulturists, Tom’s fastidious attention to detail and leadership of the wine show system sets the scene for an exciting Challenge in 2024. 

Shop Pinot Noir Challenge Pack