{"title":"Mount Gambier Wines","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"heroes-vineyard-anti-hero-coola-road-chardonnay-2024","title":"2024 Heroes Vineyard Anti-Hero Coola Road Chardonnay | 93+ Point Mount Gambier Chardonnay","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🔥 MOUNT GAMBIER CHARDONNAY IS BOOMING — HERE'S WHY.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Gambier Chardonnay Is One of Australia's Best-Kept Secrets\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnother wine that shows why Heroes Vineyard and winemaker James Thomas deserve serious attention\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93+ Points – Halliday Wine Companion\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eMount Gambier, South Australia\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRRP $37 a bottle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere's another wine that shows why \u003cstrong\u003eHeroes Vineyard and winemaker James Thomas deserve serious attention\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e2024 Anti-Hero Coola Road Chardonnay\u003c\/strong\u003e comes from the Coola Road Vineyard in \u003cstrong\u003eMount Gambier\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of Australia's most exciting emerging cool-climate wine regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd the combination here is seriously compelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Gambier fruit.\u003cbr\u003eShallow clay loam over limestone.\u003cbr\u003eWhole-bunch pressed.\u003cbr\u003eWild fermented.\u003cbr\u003eFrench oak hogsheads.\u003cbr\u003e20% new oak.\u003cbr\u003e12.8% alcohol.\u003cbr\u003eOnly 180 cases produced.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThen there's the review:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt \u003cstrong\u003eRRP $37\u003c\/strong\u003e, this is a beautifully made, genuinely small-production Chardonnay that massively over-delivers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e93+ Points – Halliday Wine Companion\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRich found a bright, beautifully composed Chardonnay combining \u003cstrong\u003estone fruit and honeysuckle with a subtle struck-match character\u003c\/strong\u003e, before moving into a balanced, structured and saline palate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe also singled it out as a wine that is both well made and very well priced, with the potential to reward another \u003cstrong\u003ethree to five years in the cellar\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat last part is important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt $37, this isn't merely a Chardonnay made for immediate drinking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThere's enough structure and acidity here to evolve.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExpect a beautifully modern cool-climate Chardonnay showing:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhite peach\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNectarine\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStone fruit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHoneysuckle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLemon\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCitrus peel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRoasted almond\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSubtle struck match\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine French oak\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMineral notes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSaline acidity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLong, savoury finish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere's a lovely interplay between \u003cstrong\u003eripe stone fruit and savoury complexity\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fruit gives the wine generosity, while the subtle struck-match and nutty characters bring another dimension.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThen comes that saline finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFresh.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStructured.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePersistent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis isn't big, buttery Chardonnay.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's modern Australian Chardonnay built around \u003cstrong\u003efruit, texture, acidity and restraint\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWelcome to Mount Gambier\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Gambier is rapidly becoming one of Australia's most exciting Chardonnay regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd it's not difficult to understand why.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe region sits in the far south-east of South Australia, surrounded by the influence of the Southern Ocean.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeroes describes all of its Anti-Hero vineyard sources as \u003cstrong\u003ecool-climate sites with maritime influence from the Southern Ocean\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat matters enormously for Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSlow ripening allows flavour to develop while retaining the natural acidity that gives Chardonnay its:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFreshness • Tension • Precision • Ageing potential\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's a very different proposition from warmer South Australian Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCoola Road – Clay Loam, Flint \u0026amp; Limestone\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThen we get to the vineyard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fruit comes from:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCoola Road Vineyard – Mount Gambier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Chardonnay grows in:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShallow clay loams\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003elittered with:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFlint rocks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eover:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLimestone.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's a seriously interesting site for Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCool climate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaritime influence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLimestone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou couldn't design a much more enticing combination for Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd while it's too simplistic to claim limestone directly creates a particular flavour, the site's geology, climate and drainage form an important part of the wine's identity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eA Vineyard with History\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCoola Road isn't a new vineyard planted yesterday to take advantage of Mount Gambier's growing reputation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ellis family has owned the Coola grazing property for more than \u003cstrong\u003e160 years\u003c\/strong\u003e, with vineyard plantings beginning in the late 1990s. The site subsequently expanded beyond Pinot Noir to include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Pinot Gris. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeroes' James Thomas sources Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from Coola Road for his Anti-Hero range. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's exactly what Anti-Hero is about:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinding interesting cool-climate vineyards and allowing those sites to speak.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhole-Bunch Pressed\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2024 Chardonnay was harvested on:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e8 March 2024\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eat:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e11.8 Baumé.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fruit was then:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhole-bunch pressed.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's a significant detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhole-bunch pressing is widely used in high-quality Chardonnay production because it allows relatively gentle extraction of juice from the grapes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe aim isn't to make a massive wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's about preserving:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePurity • Freshness • Fine texture • Acidity\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd those characteristics come through beautifully here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWild Fermented\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe juice then undergoes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWild fermentation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003erather than relying on selected cultured yeast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd importantly, fermentation happens directly in:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrench oak hogsheads.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is where the texture starts to build.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarrel fermentation gives Chardonnay additional complexity and palate weight, while spontaneous fermentation can add another dimension of savoury character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut the key is restraint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNothing here overwhelms the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrench Oak – Only 20% New\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2024 was fermented and matured in:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrench oak hogsheads\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ewith just:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e20% new oak.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's beautifully judged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere's enough new oak to add complexity and structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut not enough to bury the Chardonnay under vanilla, toast and wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe result keeps the focus firmly on:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStone Fruit • Honeysuckle • Citrus • Mineral Character • Salinity\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ewith the oak playing a supporting role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExactly where it belongs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJust 12.8% Alcohol\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere's another detail I love:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e12.8% alcohol.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's a clue to the style.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis isn't Chardonnay built through enormous ripeness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cool Mount Gambier climate allows flavour to develop without pushing alcohol levels unnecessarily high.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe result is Chardonnay with \u003cstrong\u003eenergy and drinkability\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere's enough weight to satisfy Chardonnay drinkers who want some generosity, but there's freshness underneath to keep you coming back to the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottled Without Fining\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wine was also bottled:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWithout fining.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAgain, that tells you something about James Thomas' approach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere's minimal unnecessary intervention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe emphasis is on preserving the vineyard and the personality of the wine rather than polishing everything into anonymity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeroes describes its winemaking philosophy around three key ideas:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRestraint. Precision. Age-worthiness.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThose three words describe this Chardonnay beautifully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOnly 180 Cases Made\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd here's the catch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProduction was just:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e180 cases.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's tiny.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis isn't Chardonnay being produced in enormous commercial quantities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's a genuinely small-production wine sourced from a specific Mount Gambier vineyard and made with serious attention to detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt an RRP of only \u003cstrong\u003e$37\u003c\/strong\u003e, that makes the wine even more interesting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Thomas \u0026amp; The Anti-Hero Project\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Anti-Hero wines give James Thomas the opportunity to step outside his own Heroes vineyard in the Otway Hinterland and work with other interesting cool-climate sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe current Anti-Hero sources include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYeowarra Hill – Otway Hinterland\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCoola Road – Mount Gambier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCobboboonee – Henty\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeroes notes that these vineyards share an important characteristic: they're all \u003cstrong\u003ecool-climate sites influenced by the Southern Ocean\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd Halliday reviewer Philip Rich specifically praised the Anti-Hero project, noting that Thomas brings the same level of detail and care to these well-priced wines as he does to the flagship Heroes range. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's what makes these wines such smart buying.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHalliday Says Heroes Is One to Watch\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're wondering why we're getting excited about this producer, look at the scores across the 2024 range:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Heroes Pinot Noir – 97 Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Heroes Chardonnay – 96 Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Heroes Dry Riesling – 95+ Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Heroes Sauvignon Blanc – 95 Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Anti-Hero Yeowarra Hill Pinot Noir – 95+ Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Anti-Hero Yeowarra Hill Chardonnay – 94 Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Anti-Hero Coola Road Chardonnay – 93+ Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's not one lucky wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThat's an extraordinary range.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhilip Rich said he was blown away by the 2024 Heroes wines and identified James Thomas as a producer worth watching. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCoola Road vs Yeowarra Hill Chardonnay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere's a fantastic tasting to do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJames Thomas makes two Anti-Hero Chardonnays from two completely different cool-climate regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e2025 Anti-Hero Coola Road Chardonnay – Mount Gambier\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93+ Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStone Fruit • Honeysuckle • Struck Match • Salinity • Fine Oak\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShallow clay loam + flint over limestone\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e20% new French oak\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e12.8% alcohol\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e180 cases produced\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e2024 Anti-Hero Yeowarra Hill Chardonnay – Otway Hinterland\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYellow Fruit • Grilled Walnut • Marine Notes • Salinity • Bright Acidity\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo cool-climate sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSame winemaker.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSame vintage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo very different expressions of Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThat's what makes the Anti-Hero project so fascinating.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerious Chardonnay for $37\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd this is where the Coola Road Chardonnay becomes very difficult to ignore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLook at what you're getting:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Gambier fruit.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecific vineyard.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLimestone soils.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhole-bunch pressing.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWild fermentation.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrench oak hogsheads.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e20% new oak.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNo fining.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e180 cases.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93+ Halliday points.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd the RRP?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e$37.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's seriously smart buying.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFood Pairings\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis would be superb with:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKing George whiting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeared scallops\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGrilled prawns\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLobster\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRoast chicken\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGrilled snapper\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeafood pasta\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMushroom risotto\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePork\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRoast cauliflower\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComté\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGruyère\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'd go straight for \u003cstrong\u003eKing George whiting or seared scallops\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wine's stone fruit, struck-match complexity and saline finish would work beautifully with seafood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServe at around \u003cstrong\u003e10–12°C\u003c\/strong\u003e rather than refrigerator cold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGive it a decent Chardonnay glass and allow it to open.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDrinking \u0026amp; Cellaring\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhilip Rich believes it's ready to drink now but should reward another:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e3–5 years in the cellar.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'd suggest:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrink now–2030+.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYoung, you'll get more of the:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStone Fruit • Honeysuckle • Citrus • Salinity\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs it develops, expect more:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoasted Nuts • Toast • Savoury Complexity\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eto emerge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt $37, I'd buy enough to do both.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy We Love It\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is exactly the sort of wine we love finding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot expensive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot mass-produced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot from one of the obvious Chardonnay regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJust seriously good wine from a fascinating vineyard.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLook at the package:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93+ Points – Halliday Wine Companion\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCoola Road Vineyard – Mount Gambier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClay Loam + Flint over Limestone\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhole-Bunch Pressed\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWild Fermented\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrench Oak Hogsheads\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e20% New Oak\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBottled Without Fining\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e12.8% Alcohol\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOnly 180 Cases Produced\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd your RRP?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e$37.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe flavour profile gives you \u003cstrong\u003estone fruit, honeysuckle and subtle struck match\u003c\/strong\u003e, with a beautifully balanced, structured and saline palate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you love modern Australian Chardonnay from \u003cstrong\u003eMount Gambier, Geelong, the Yarra Valley or Tasmania\u003c\/strong\u003e, this is exactly the sort of under-the-radar bottle worth discovering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93+ Halliday. Mount Gambier. Limestone. Wild fermented. Only 180 cases. $37 RRP.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe 2024 Heroes Anti-Hero Coola Road Chardonnay is seriously impressive value.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heroes Vineyard","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52442434470190,"sku":null,"price":37.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0950\/5010\/5134\/files\/2024HeroesVineyardAntiHeroCoolaRoadChardonnay.png?v=1786933111"},{"product_id":"heroes-vineyard-anti-hero-coola-road-pinot-noir-2024","title":"2024 Heroes Vineyard Anti-Hero Coola Road Pinot Noir | Mount Gambier Pinot Noir","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🔥 MOUNT GAMBIER PINOT NOIR IS COMING — THIS IS WHY.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis is another fascinating wine from James Thomas and the Heroes Anti-Hero project.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFor anyone interested in the new wave of Australian Pinot Noir coming from Mount Gambier, this is a seriously interesting bottle.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points – Halliday Wine Companion\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eMount Gambier, South Australia\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRRP $37 a bottle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFlint. Limestone. Southern Ocean. $37.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is another fascinating wine from \u003cstrong\u003eJames Thomas and the Heroes Anti-Hero project\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut this time we're leaving Victoria altogether.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003e2024 Heroes Anti-Hero Coola Road Pinot Noir\u003c\/strong\u003e comes from \u003cstrong\u003eCoola Road Vineyard at Mount Gambier\u003c\/strong\u003e, an emerging cool-climate region in the far south-east of South Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHalliday Wine Companion has reviewed the wine, confirming its Mount Gambier origin, \u003cstrong\u003e13% alcohol\u003c\/strong\u003e and $35 price when tasted. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe attraction here is the site.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShallow clay loam.\u003cbr\u003eFlint.\u003cbr\u003eLimestone.\u003cbr\u003eSouthern Ocean influence.\u003cbr\u003eCool-climate Pinot Noir.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd an RRP of just:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e$37.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor anyone interested in the new wave of Australian Pinot Noir coming from Mount Gambier, this is a seriously interesting bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e92 Points – Halliday Wine Companion\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points – Halliday Wine Companion\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe score is solid, but with this wine I'd sell the \u003cstrong\u003evineyard and value story\u003c\/strong\u003e just as hard as the points.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause $37 gets you Pinot Noir from one of Australia's most fascinating emerging cool-climate areas, made by the same winemaker responsible for the extraordinary \u003cstrong\u003e97-point Heroes Vineyard Otway Hinterland Pinot Noir\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHalliday's recent profile of Heroes noted that James Thomas applies the \u003cstrong\u003esame level of detail and care\u003c\/strong\u003e to the well-priced Anti-Hero wines as he does to his flagship Heroes releases. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnti-Hero isn't an afterthought.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's James Thomas exploring other distinctive cool-climate vineyards through the same restrained winemaking philosophy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2024 Coola Road Pinot Noir is light to medium-bodied, bright and beautifully savoury, with:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRed cherry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDark cherry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWild strawberry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRhubarb\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCranberry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDried clove\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBramble\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDried herbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSubtle graphite\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine cedar\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEarth\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSavoury spice\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine, polished tannins\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's not a big Pinot Noir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's the point.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere's plenty of bright red fruit on entry before \u003cstrong\u003erhubarb, bramble, cedar and dried spice\u003c\/strong\u003e build through the palate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tannins are polished and the finish is savoury, spicy and beautifully composed. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLight on its feet.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSavoury rather than sweet.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeriously drinkable.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMount Gambier – One of Australia's Emerging Pinot Noir Regions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Gambier is becoming a fascinating source of Australian Pinot Noir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is about as far removed from the traditional image of warm South Australian red wine as you can get.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Gambier sits right down in the state's south-east, exposed to the cooling influence of the Southern Ocean.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeroes describes the vineyards used for its Anti-Hero project as \u003cstrong\u003ecool-climate, maritime-influenced sites\u003c\/strong\u003e, and specifically sources Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Coola Road for this range. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Pinot Noir, those cooler conditions matter enormously.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey help preserve:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcidity • Perfume • Freshness • Fine tannin • Moderate alcohol\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003erather than pushing the variety towards excessive ripeness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFlint over Limestone\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow we get to one of the best parts of the wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCoola Road's Pinot Noir grows in:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShallow clay loams\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003elittered with:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFlint rocks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eover:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLimestone.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's a fascinating vineyard profile for Pinot Noir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere's a reason Mount Gambier is increasingly attracting attention from winemakers interested in Chardonnay and Pinot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe combination of \u003cstrong\u003ecool maritime conditions and limestone-based geology\u003c\/strong\u003e provides some seriously exciting raw material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd Coola Road has already attracted other highly regarded winemakers looking for Mount Gambier Pinot fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eConstant Cooling Influence\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCoola Road is warmer than James Thomas' home vineyard in the Otways, but the site remains heavily influenced by the ocean.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContemporary descriptions of the vineyard emphasise its \u003cstrong\u003emaritime climate and persistent sea breezes\u003c\/strong\u003e, helping moderate temperatures despite its slightly warmer location. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's a very attractive environment for Pinot Noir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou get enough warmth to develop flavour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut enough cooling influence to retain freshness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe finished wine sits at just:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e13% alcohol.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's right in the zone for modern Australian Pinot Noir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCoola Road – A Vineyard with History\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCoola Road isn't some newly planted vineyard created to capitalise on Mount Gambier's growing reputation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ellis family has owned the Coola grazing property for more than:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e160 years.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVineyard planting began in the \u003cstrong\u003elate 1990s\u003c\/strong\u003e, initially with Pinot Noir, before expanding to Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Pinot Gris. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePinot Noir therefore sits right at the foundation of the Coola Road vineyard story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd today James Thomas is using the site to explore a completely different expression of Pinot Noir from his Otway Hinterland wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhole Bunch + French Oak\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe winemaking remains restrained.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fruit sees a \u003cstrong\u003esmall whole-bunch component\u003c\/strong\u003e before maturation in French oak hogsheads. Contemporary listings for the 2024 describe a modest new-oak component, keeping wood influence firmly in the background. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's exactly what you want with a wine like this.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe oak isn't supposed to make the wine taste expensive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's there to support:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFruit • Tannin • Texture • Spice\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ewhile allowing the vineyard to remain visible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd at only $37, that's seriously considered winemaking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eJames Thomas \u0026amp; Anti-Hero\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Anti-Hero wines are where James Thomas gets to wander beyond his original Heroes Vineyard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe currently works with sites including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYeowarra Hill – Otway Hinterland\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCoola Road – Mount Gambier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCobboboonee – Henty\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach has a strong cool-climate, maritime influence. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe point isn't to make them all taste the same.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's the opposite.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDifferent vineyards. Different regions. Different expressions.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's what makes the project interesting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Heroes Is a Producer to Watch\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're wondering why we're getting excited about a 92-point Pinot Noir, look at what James Thomas achieved across the rest of the 2024 Heroes range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Heroes Vineyard Pinot Noir – 97 Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Heroes Vineyard Chardonnay – 96 Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Heroes Dry Riesling – 95+ Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Heroes Sauvignon Blanc – 95 Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Anti-Hero Yeowarra Hill Pinot Noir – 95+ Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Anti-Hero Yeowarra Hill Chardonnay – 94 Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2024 Anti-Hero Coola Road Chardonnay – 93+ Points Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHalliday's Philip Rich said he was \u003cstrong\u003e“blown away”\u003c\/strong\u003e by the 2024 Heroes range and identified James Thomas as an under-the-radar producer worth seeking out. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat puts the $37 Coola Road Pinot into context.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou're buying into a producer that's absolutely flying.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThree Vineyards – Three Pinot Noirs\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is where the Heroes range becomes really interesting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e2024 Heroes Vineyard Pinot Noir – Otway Hinterland\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points Halliday | RRP $75\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlagship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerfumed • Deep • Silky • Mineral • Complex\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e2024 Anti-Hero Yeowarra Hill Pinot Noir – Otway Hinterland\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95+ Points Halliday | RRP $43\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRed \u0026amp; Black Fruit • Bramble • Thyme • Nutmeg • Fine Tannin\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e2024 Anti-Hero Coola Road Pinot Noir – Mount Gambier\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points Halliday | RRP $37\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRed Cherry • Strawberry • Rhubarb • Clove • Bramble • Savoury Spice\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThree vineyards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSame winemaker.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThree completely different expressions of Pinot Noir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThat's a fantastic tasting.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e$37 – This Is the Everyday Heroes Pinot\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is how I'd position the Coola Road.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe flagship Heroes Pinot is the serious cellar wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Yeowarra Hill is the \u003cstrong\u003e95+ point value sweet spot\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd Coola Road?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis is the one you drink.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's $37.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's bright.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's savoury.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's medium-bodied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt doesn't need ten years in the cellar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd it comes from a fascinating Mount Gambier vineyard sitting on \u003cstrong\u003eflint-strewn clay over limestone\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's a pretty compelling package.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFood Pairings\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a brilliant food Pinot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTry it with:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRoast chicken\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDuck breast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePork loin\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChargrilled quail\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMushroom risotto\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMushroom pizza\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSalmon\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuna\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBeef tartare\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCharcuterie\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGruyère\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoft cheeses\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'd particularly like this with \u003cstrong\u003eroast chicken and mushrooms\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cherry, rhubarb, bramble and clove characters would work beautifully with earthy flavours.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd because the wine is relatively light and fresh, you can even give it a slight chill.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServe around:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e14–16°C.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDrinking \u0026amp; Cellaring\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is primarily about enjoyment rather than long-term cellaring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA current retailer assessment suggests:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrink now–2029\u003c\/strong\u003e, highlighting the wine's supple texture, polished tannins and savoury finish. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'd suggest:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrink now–2030.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can open it immediately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGive it \u003cstrong\u003e15–30 minutes of air\u003c\/strong\u003e, pour it into a decent Burgundy glass and enjoy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo ceremony required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy We Love It\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a different proposition from the blockbuster-scoring Heroes wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd that's exactly why I like it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou're getting:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e⭐ 92 Points – Halliday Wine Companion\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCoola Road Vineyard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMount Gambier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCool Maritime Climate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClay Loam + Flint over Limestone\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhole-Bunch Component\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrench Oak Maturation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e13% Alcohol\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd the RRP?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e$37.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's smart Pinot Noir buying.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's \u003cstrong\u003ered-fruited, spicy, savoury, supple and fresh\u003c\/strong\u003e, with cherry, strawberry, rhubarb, bramble and clove characters wrapped around polished tannins. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you love discovering the new wave of Australian Pinot Noir from \u003cstrong\u003eMount Gambier, Henty, the Otways, Geelong and the Upper Yarra\u003c\/strong\u003e, this is exactly the sort of bottle worth trying.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Halliday. Mount Gambier. Flint over limestone. $37 RRP.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe 2024 Heroes Anti-Hero Coola Road Pinot Noir is a seriously drinkable introduction to both James Thomas and one of Australia's most exciting emerging Pinot Noir regions.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003eSearching for exceptional Mount Gambier Pinot Noir? The 2024 Heroes Vineyard Anti-Hero Coola Road Pinot Noir is a small-production South Australian Pinot Noir from the Coola Road Vineyard, combining red cherry, strawberry, rhubarb, clove and brambly spice with polished tannins, mineral freshness and a savoury finish. A vibrant cool-climate Pinot Noir from one of Australia's most exciting emerging wine regions.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Heroes Vineyard","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52443590033710,"sku":null,"price":37.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0950\/5010\/5134\/files\/2024HeroesVineyardAntiHeroCoolaRoadPinotNoir.png?v=1786930000"}],"url":"https:\/\/liquidvibe.com.au\/collections\/mount-gambier-wines.oembed","provider":"liquidvibe.com.au","version":"1.0","type":"link"}