2025 Mulline Pinot Noir, Geelong, Vic

Ben Mullen continues to show a strong feel for Pinot Noir, and the 2025 release takes a slightly more refined, quietly confident direction. Drawing fruit from across Geelong—Moorabool Valley, Surf Coast and Bellarine—it brings together freshness, structure and a subtle savoury edge in a very complete way. Aromatically, it leans more toward lifted red cherry, cranberry and rose petal, with underlying notes of spice, dried herbs and a faint smoky nuance. There’s a gentle tension here, likely from some whole-bunch inclusion, adding lift and a fine, peppery complexity. The palate is composed and finely textured, sitting in that medium-bodied zone with soft tannins and a smooth, polished feel. Oak is handled with restraint, allowing the purity of fruit and line of acidity to carry the wine. Approachable now, with enough structure to gain further harmony over the short term. A thoughtful, well-balanced Pinot that speaks clearly of place and intent. "Made from fruit sourced from the Moorabool Valley, Surf Coast and Portarlington. 10% whole bunches and 15% new oak. A really bright crimson ruby. With its aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry and some whole-bunch–derived pepper and spice, there's a lot going on in this well-put-together and attractively priced wine. The palate is medium bodied, energetic and supple. And while it's already a treat to drink now, there's upside in that it will be even better one to two years from now." 95+ points, Phillip Rich