William Downie Camp Hill Pinot Noir 2025
William Downie's 2025 release is not only remarkably individual in nature but an excellent articulation of Bill's approach to his craft and his pursuit for purity in expression of terroir.
Bill has always been compelled to produce wine in a way that aims to achieve a height of articulation of site and vintage. Doing so tends to remove hiding places for elements of the wine that are not as precise as intended, or for vintage variation to display more overtly. When the vintage conditions and vineyard health are exceptional, the thrill of the potential wine at hand is electric, and you could see it in Bill's eyes and the lightness of his step this time last year.
This site was planted in 1998 at 250m elevation and is considered the highest point between the Strzelecki and Great Dividing Ranges. The vineyard faces north with almost 360 degree views of Baw Baw Shire. Most of the vines are MV6 with a couple of rows of 115. The red volcanic soils have a little more rock than the Bull Swamp site and the wine is finer and more delicate as a result.
This year’s Camp Hill is significantly deeper in colour than any of the previous vintages. It is dense and complex with dark cherry, poached pear and wood spice aromas. The palate is rich and powerful with more dark fruits, rosella flower, burnt orange and violets. The 2025 vintage is certainly one to keep for many years and will reveal more complexity and detail over time. Drink 2027- 2045.
