Review

Bellvale Pinot Noir 2004
 

“Typical strong colour, excellent dark plum, black cherry and spice aromas, the palate following down the same track; has the structure to age longer than most.”

95 points. 5 glasses.
Rated among “Best of the Best” Pinot Noir producers in Australia in the front of the book.

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar Review Page

“Deep red color. A gorgeous bouquet comprises bright red fruits, especially wild strawberry and raspberry, along with sexy oak spices. Medium in weight, clean and brisk, with vivid red berry and candied cherry flavours carrying through to a supple finish.” - Josh Reynolds

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar. 90 points.

Epicure: Uncorked Review Page

“Bellvale is the Burgundy-inspired Gippsland vineyard of former airline pilot John Ellis. Foresty Pinot mystery leads the way here, rather than straightforward bright Australian characteristics, giving subtle complexity to a core of red berry fruit. It's French-accented, restrained and relatively light, with a gentle, lingering finish. A name to watch.” - Ralph Kyte-Powell

Epicure: Uncorked magazine, supplement to The Age newspaper, August 2006.
4.5 stars.

Discover the Wine Regions of Victoria Review Page

“[Of the Gippsland wine-growing region of] South Gippsland, based around Leongatha, is the coolest, the wettest and the windiest. Viticulture is demanding, but get it right, and the results are some of Australia's most exciting Pinot Noir . . . John Ellis at Bellvale is another of the new breed of Gippsland vignerons. The Bellvale Pinot Noir style is on the dark, intense side, with black cherries and fruit of the forest aromas and flavours. Everything, including a strong structure, suggests a wine to age. Do we have the patience to wait? Can't see it myself.” - Jeni Port

Discover the Wine Regions of Victoria, supplement to The Age newspaper, September 2006.