Masterclass – Pioneering Pinot

New World, old vines, new ideas, same old magic. Dive into New World pinot noir as we celebrate the best of the best, with a few European interlopers just for fun. The Adelaide Hills, Otago, Martinborough, California and more will feature – exquisite pinot noir wherever you look.

Wine writer, judge and presenter Erin Larkin will host this masterclass, which is also set to feature New Zealand winemakers Helen Masters and Nick Mills in conversation with Adelaide Hills winemaker Andrie Whisson and Tasting Australia drinks curator Banjo Harris Plane.

Masters has spent more than two decades making wine with Ata Rangi, established in 1980 by trailblazing winemaker Clive Paton. Its full range is feted, though it’s pinot noir that earned this Martinborough label the New Zealand equivalent of grand cru status.

Mills works at Rippon, his family estate, found beside Lake Wanaka on the South Island. Biodynamic practices are used to care for its vineyards, with six varieties grown and some vines more than 40 years old. Pinot noir remains the flagship, praised for depth and brilliant nuance.

The Piccadilly Valley’s high, cool slopes are home to the acclaimed Whisson Lake, known for single-vineyard pinot noir grown across a 15-acre hill. Whisson, who steers the label with her husband Mark, pursued winemaking after time working as a surgical intensive care nurse. Since 2010 she has spent every vintage in the winery.

Rounding out the masterclass lineup is Harris Plane, a former sommelier in top Australian and international restaurants who today leads online wine retailer Good Pair Days in addition to shaping the Tasting Australia drinks program with partner Meira Harel.

Ready? We’re turning the spotlight to pioneering pinot and the people who craft it.

INCLUSIONS:

• Food: tasting cheese board
• Beverages: four tasting brackets with four wines in each; a total of 16 wine tastings 

View Conditions of Sale & Entry and Ticket Refund Policy.

 

Licensing information: Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The consumption of alcohol is restricted to over 18's. Identification may be requested and checked