Purity, savoury complexity and finely measured structure define the Chatto Franklinii Pinot Noir 2024, a regional expression sourced entirely from Tasmania’s Huon Valley. Produced by respected Pinot Noir specialist Jim Chatto, the wine combines fruit from the Elsewhere and Frankcomb vineyards, expanding upon the first Franklinii release, which was drawn solely from Frankcomb. Its name references Lagarostrobos franklinii, the scientific name of the Huon pine endemic to Tasmania. Franklinii forms part of Chatto’s regional collection, offering a focused interpretation of the red and black fruit, natural freshness and spicy character associated with the Huon Valley. The producer describes the wine as lively and balanced, with red and black berry fruit and a vivacious aromatic lift. The grapes were handpicked, fermented for approximately 10 days on skins and hand plunged to achieve measured extraction.
The 2024 Tasmanian vintage followed an exceptionally dry summer and produced Pinot Noirs with greater flesh and structure than the preceding couple of years. In the glass, Franklinii presents a dark red core with violet, red cherry, dark cherry and strawberry aromas. Notes of anise, fresh herbs, forest floor and restrained spice contribute savoury detail and aromatic complexity. The palate is energetic and deeply fruited, combining cherry and strawberry flavours with cedar, herbs and earthy undertones. Polished, fine-grained tannins provide shape without diminishing the wine’s freshness or fruit clarity. Its darker fruit profile is complemented by exotic spice and an airy tannin structure that carries flavour through the palate. The finish is long, fresh and persistent, with fruit and savoury elements remaining finely balanced. Although immediately expressive, its concentration, acidity and composed structure support graceful development through the coming decade.
Purity, savoury complexity and finely measured structure define the Chatto Franklinii Pinot Noir 2024, a regional expression sourced entirely from Tasmania’s Huon Valley. Produced by respected Pinot Noir specialist Jim Chatto, the wine combines fruit from the Elsewhere and Frankcomb vineyards, expanding upon the first Franklinii release, which was drawn solely from Frankcomb. Its name references Lagarostrobos franklinii, the scientific name of the Huon pine endemic to Tasmania. Franklinii forms part of Chatto’s regional collection, offering a focused interpretation of the red and black fruit, natural freshness and spicy character associated with the Huon Valley. The producer describes the wine as lively and balanced, with red and black berry fruit and a vivacious aromatic lift. The grapes were handpicked, fermented for approximately 10 days on skins and hand plunged to achieve measured extraction.
The 2024 Tasmanian vintage followed an exceptionally dry summer and produced Pinot Noirs with greater flesh and structure than the preceding couple of years. In the glass, Franklinii presents a dark red core with violet, red cherry, dark cherry and strawberry aromas. Notes of anise, fresh herbs, forest floor and restrained spice contribute savoury detail and aromatic complexity. The palate is energetic and deeply fruited, combining cherry and strawberry flavours with cedar, herbs and earthy undertones. Polished, fine-grained tannins provide shape without diminishing the wine’s freshness or fruit clarity. Its darker fruit profile is complemented by exotic spice and an airy tannin structure that carries flavour through the palate. The finish is long, fresh and persistent, with fruit and savoury elements remaining finely balanced. Although immediately expressive, its concentration, acidity and composed structure support graceful development through the coming decade.