Bicknell FC 'Applecross' Pinot Noir 2024

David Bicknell needs little introduction in Australian wine circles having worked for many years at de Bortoli and now at Oakridge where he was recently names Gourmet Traveller WINE Magazine, Winemaker of the Year.

Bicknell FC is a family winemaking project of Dave Bicknell and Nicky Harris. The project started as random wines from interesting sites, but as they have moved through the years, getting their eye in so to speak, they have settled into the good fortune of leasing one of those interesting sites.

The Chardonnay & Pinot Noir currently available are from Val Stewart’s vineyard at the top of the hill in Gladysdale. There is 1.0 Ha of chardonnay and 1.5 Ha of pinot noir. It was planted in 1988 with 3,660 plants/Ha, and sits between 332-363m ASL, in red volcanic soil. 

"From the old Lance's vineyard, planted from 1976–1998 (with a selection massale from Mount Mary) and in 2003. 80% whole berry and 20% whole bunch. Bright crimson. Perfumed with wild strawberries, first of the summer cherries, subtle rose bush and spice. The more you swirl the glass, the more fragrant it becomes. On the palate, there is a tender plushness, making it feel quite different to the previous bicknell fc pinots from the Upper Yarra. Fine tannins and bright acidity round out a beautifully crafted and graceful wine" Rating: 96+ Points. Philip Rich.  Halliday Wine Companion.