Even Keel Pinot Noir 2024 by Sam Coverdale’s Even Keel label, sourced from the cool‑climate Murrindindi Yea Valley, is a lively, fragrant Pinot that punches well above its weight with serious drinkability and charm. Grown on decomposed granite in the Victorian High Country foothills, this Even Keel Murrindindi Pinot Noir 2024 captures brightness, perfume and fine structure in a beautifully balanced frame. It is exactly the kind of modern, juicy yet savoury Pinot Noir Aussies love to drink.

Lift the glass and you get aromatics of Asian spice, redcurrant, tamarind and brambly raspberry leaf, with hints of cherry and a gentle earthy, mushroomy edge. The palate is all crushed rhubarb, redcurrants and pomegranate, wrapped in velvety savoury tannins and lovely crunchy acidity that keeps everything fresh and moreish. Light to medium in body but long in flavour, this is a pretty yet structured style that over‑delivers on interest and drinkability.

On the table, 2024 Even Keel Pinot Noir is spot‑on with pan‑roasted duck breast, roast pork with crackling or a simple herb‑rubbed roast chook, where that bright acidity slices through the fat. It will sing with mushroom risotto, miso‑glazed eggplant, grilled salmon or a charcuterie board loaded with pâté, terrine and semi‑hard cheeses. For a casual spread, think gourmet sausages on the barbie, wood‑fired pizza or a lentil and roasted beetroot salad and watch the bottle disappear.