Tasting Notes:

The Shepherds Hut Michael Mayo Pinot Noir 2023 greets the nose with bright, fresh aromas of cherry and rhubarb, along with complex notes of leather and stalks. On the palate, the wine presents vibrant red fruit flavours balanced by soft, grainy tannins and subtle astringency. The finish is long, elegant, and beautifully structured, showcasing the wine’s impressive length and balance.

Food Pairings:

• Duck with roasted eggplant and green salad
• Grilled salmon or seared tuna
• Mushroom risotto or wild mushroom tart
• Soft cheeses like brie or camembert

Additional Info:

• Best Serving Temperature: 14-16°C (lightly chilled)
• Awards: Trophy for winner of best Pinot Noir at the 2024 Sanector Wine Show of Western Australia.
• Cellaring Potential: Drink now to enjoy its vibrant fruit, or cellar for a few years to allow the wine’s complexity to evolve.
• Screw Cap: Traditional cork closure for a premium wine experience.
• Technical Terms Explained:

Tannins: Natural compounds found in grape skins and seeds, contributing to a wine’s structure. Tannins can make a wine feel dry or astringent, but also add depth and aging potential.
Astringency: A sensation on the palate that feels dry or puckering, often caused by tannins. In this wine, it adds a layer of complexity and balance.
Microclimate: A localized climate within a specific area, often caused by factors like altitude or proximity to natural features like mountains or bodies of water. The unique microclimate in the Porongurup region contributes to the slow ripening of the Pinot Noir grapes.

Learn More About Shepherd’s Hut Wines

Named after a 1850s stone hut found in ruins on an adjacent property. Built of beautiful honey-coloured Mt Barker stone, the hut was used by local shepherds as shelter while grazing their flocks along the Kalgan River. As we planted our first vines on the north facing slopes of our sheep and cattle farm, we rebuilt the hut. It now overlooks the vineyard, with spectacular sweeping views to both the Porongurup and Stirling Ranges.

Shepherd’s Hut Winery

Established in 1996, we are a family business that has always had a strong focus on quality over quantity. This philosophy applies to all facets of our business from growing the grapes through to marketing. We are proud of the wines we produce and the relationship we have with our customers. We hope you enjoy a Shepherd’s Hut Wine soon.

Known for their Magnificent Pinot Noir, Riesling & Chardonnay.

Porongurup Wine Region

The Porongurup wine region, located in Western Australia, is known for its stunning landscapes and unique terroir, which contribute to the production of exceptional wines. The region’s cool climate, influenced by its elevation and proximity to the Stirling Ranges, allows for a longer growing season. This extended ripening period is ideal for developing the complex flavours and acidity that characterise high-quality wines. The cool nights help retain freshness, while warm days promote optimal grape maturation, making Porongurup an ideal environment for both white and red varietals.

In terms of wine styles, Porongurup wines excel in producing elegant and aromatic white wines, particularly Riesling and Chardonnay. The region’s Rieslings are renowned for their crisp acidity, floral aromas, and notes of citrus and stone fruit, often reflecting a mineral edge due to the diverse soils, including granite and sandy loams. Chardonnay from Porongurup typically showcases vibrant fruit profiles and a balanced acidity, often with subtle oak influences from barrel aging. Additionally, the region has begun to gain recognition for its red wines, particularly Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, which are known for their depth, structure, and rich fruit flavours.

The terroir of Porongurup plays a significant role in shaping the characteristics of its wines. The diverse soils, combined with the region’s unique microclimates, create ideal conditions for grape growing. The cool, moist environment supports healthy vine growth, while the elevation ensures good drainage and aeration, reducing disease pressure. As a result, the wines from Porongurup are celebrated for their purity, finesse, and ability to express the distinct characteristics of the land. This combination of climate, soil, and careful viticulture makes Porongurup a standout region within Western Australia’s wine landscape.