Guest review by Majamke.
I've been reading rave reviews about Ocean Eight for a while now, so when we were recently in the Mornington Peninsula, a visit to the cellar door was high up on the list.
We were lucky enough to go beyond the front door and venture into the actual cellar where we sampled various barrels and really got an appreciation of the different recent vintages being produced by this small winery.
I've been reading rave reviews about Ocean Eight for a while now, so when we were recently in the Mornington Peninsula, a visit to the cellar door was high up on the list.
We were lucky enough to go beyond the front door and venture into the actual cellar where we sampled various barrels and really got an appreciation of the different recent vintages being produced by this small winery.
The winery itself is set amongst some impressive gardens with all production taking place using gravity only, meaning no need for any pumps.
The 2010 Ocean Eight Pinot Noir is excellent drinking now. It featured a cloudy ruby appearance which suggests minimal- if any- filtration (a very promising sign), however the nose was really pure and clean. The palate comprises bright red currants and rhubarb overlaid by a vegetal character suggestive of whole bunch fermentation.
Interestingly, winemaker Mike Aylward says he doesn't use any whole bunches as the nature of Mornington Pinot provides enough stem influence without it. This wine is certainly proof of that. It's well balanced with a sparkle of acidity on the finish, and has quickly become one of my favourite Aussie Pinots.
Peak drinking in 2015 according to Mike.
Website: Ocean Eight
Twitter: @oceaneight
The 2010 Ocean Eight Pinot Noir is excellent drinking now. It featured a cloudy ruby appearance which suggests minimal- if any- filtration (a very promising sign), however the nose was really pure and clean. The palate comprises bright red currants and rhubarb overlaid by a vegetal character suggestive of whole bunch fermentation.
Interestingly, winemaker Mike Aylward says he doesn't use any whole bunches as the nature of Mornington Pinot provides enough stem influence without it. This wine is certainly proof of that. It's well balanced with a sparkle of acidity on the finish, and has quickly become one of my favourite Aussie Pinots.
Peak drinking in 2015 according to Mike.
Website: Ocean Eight
Twitter: @oceaneight
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