DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF PINOT NOIR THROUGH A VERTICAL TASTING

Winemakers Robert Bowen and Michael Ng, with Pemberley owner David Radomiljac at Pass the Pinot 2024

There’s something undeniably captivating about Pinot Noir. Often described as elegant, expressive, and a little elusive, this cool-climate varietal has long held a special place in the hearts of wine lovers. And when it comes to truly understanding its complexity, few experiences compare to a vertical tasting.

A vertical tasting involves sampling different vintages of the same wine — usually from the same vineyard and winemaker. In the case of Pinot Noir, this means tasting the subtle shifts in flavour, aroma, and structure from year to year. It’s a deep dive into the art of winemaking and the influence of time.

So, why is a vertical tasting of Pinot Noir worth doing?

1. Experience the Evolution of Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is a grape that evolves beautifully in the bottle. Young vintages typically showcase bright red fruit - think cherry, raspberry, and strawberry - with lively acidity and a silky texture. As the wine ages, those fresh fruit notes soften and give way to more savoury, earthy characteristics: forest floor, mushroom, dried herbs, and spice.

A vertical tasting allows you to experience that transformation in real time, comparing older and younger vintages side by side. It’s like watching the same story unfold in different chapters.

2. Appreciate Vintage Variation

Each growing season presents different challenges and opportunities - from warmer, drier years to cooler, wetter ones. Pinot Noir is particularly sensitive to these shifts, which means the character of each vintage is uniquely influenced by the weather and climate.

By tasting multiple vintages together, you can explore how vintage conditions shape the wine’s flavour profile, structure, and longevity. It’s a fascinating way to better understand the impact of nature on wine.

3. Celebrate Consistency and Craft

A vertical tasting also highlights the skill of the winemaker. Despite vintage variation, you’ll often notice a consistent thread - a signature style that runs through each wine. Whether it’s the use of oak, the texture on the palate, or a certain finesse in the finish, this consistency is a testament to the care and expertise behind each bottle.

4. A Memorable, Shared Experience

Vertical tastings aren’t just educational - they’re incredibly enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned wine collector or simply curious about Pinot Noir, hosting a vertical tasting makes for a unique and engaging gathering. It sparks conversation, encourages reflection, and invites everyone at the table to slow down and savour the moment.

Whether you're hosting friends or indulging in a solo tasting, a vertical flight of Pinot Noir offers a rich, rewarding experience. It’s a celebration of time, place, and craft - and a chance to discover the layers that make this varietal so captivating.

Looking to experience it for yourself? Explore our limited edition Pemberley Pinot Noir Vertical Tasting Pack, available online during April and May as part of the Pinot Picnic festival. It’s the perfect way to bring the cellar door experience into your home — no passport required.

If you’d prefer to experience a vertical tasting in person, join us at our Pass the Pinot event during the Pinot Picnic festival. This guided tasting features a curated selection of our aged and current release Pinot Noirs, allowing guests to explore the nuances of each vintage in a relaxed, social setting. It’s a rare opportunity to enjoy these wines side-by-side with commentary from the winemaker, delicious local pairings, and plenty of Pinot conversation. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just Pinot-curious, Pass the Pinot offers a taste of Pemberley’s story in every glass.

Pass the Pinot happens every year, in 2025 it runs on Saturday 3rd of May.