The Flint Rock Pinot Noir is Howard Park’s expression of the Great Southern’s rugged beauty—where cool-climate subregions like Mount Barker and Porongurup produce Pinot Noirs of fine mineral structure and savoury elegance.
The 2024 vintage was early and compressed, following a dry spring and warm summer with almost no rainfall. Harvest commenced nearly a month earlier than average, producing fruit of full physiological ripeness, vibrant acidity, and concentrated flavours. Grapes were hand-picked, sorted, cold-soaked, and partially fermented with 15% whole bunches. Maturation occurred in a mix of stainless steel and older French oak for 7 months.
Tasting Note
Light ruby in colour, the wine bursts with aromas of red and black cherry, ripe strawberry and black plum, layered with cranberry, beetroot earthiness, and subtle spice. On the palate, it is mid-bodied and juicy, carried by chalky tannins and a savoury, mineral finish. Lively acidity adds freshness and length.
Small-Batch Detail
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Region: Great Southern, Western Australia (Mount Barker & Porongurup)
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Vineyards: Ridge-top blocks at 285–370m elevation
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Fermentation: Cold soak, 15% whole bunch inclusion
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Maturation: 7 months, 50% stainless steel & 50% older French oak
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Alcohol: 13.5%
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Cellaring: Drink now–2027
Expert Reviews
⭐ 92 Points – Ray Jordan, Winepilot
“Medium-bodied Pinot showing depth and fruit concentration from this hot vintage. Bursts with cherry and spice, with raspberry on the nose. Structured with chalky tannins and understated oak, finishing savoury.”
⭐ 92+ Points – Cassandra Charlick, Winepilot
“Savoury-led with sour cherry, redcurrant, cumin and bramble. Ferrous minerality runs through from start to finish. Palate is chocolatey, with waves of freshness and a savoury finish of rosella and spiced chutney. A cracking Pinot for the price.”
⭐ 93 Points – Tom Kline, Winepilot
“Substance, finesse and charm at a modest price point. Strawberry, Bing cherry and raspberry coulis unfold into nutmeg, tilled earth and rose. Mineral finesse, dark cherry and cranberry, with chalky tannins and a long finish. Quality-for-price is outstanding.”
Fine Pinot Note
This is a value-driven yet refined Pinot Noir from Western Australia’s Great Southern—juicy, savoury, and mineral-driven. A versatile wine, perfect with charcuterie, mushroom risotto, or spiced duck breast.
