Bromley’s Pinot judged the best

THE Australian Pinot Noir Challenge has crowned a local winemaker as the best in the Geelong region, following the 2025 competition.

Located on the Bellarine, Bromley Wines owner Darren Burke received the trophy for his Bromley 2024 Harrison Pinot Noir.

Mr Burke said any award win in the industry was a huge achievement considering how many good wines were on the market.

“I have been fortunate to win a number of trophies over the last decade at a local and national level, making wines for Leura Park and Yes Said The Seal.

“The win this year, in particular, is very special as the fruit comes from Richard “Chip” and Margo Harrison at Marcus Hill Vineyard.

“With significant sadness, Chip passed away late in 2024, so to achieve this trophy with the last fruit he had tended and cared for is incredibly personal and meaningful.”

The challenge itself also holds a special place in the winemaker’s heart. He took out the inaugural challenge in 2016 with his Yes Said The Seal Pinot Noir.

Winemakers across Australia are invited to enter the awards, with wines judged within their allocated groups. The regions and finalists are often made up of gold medal winning wines.

Made using locally grown fruit, the Bromley 2024 Harrison Pinot was chosen for its structure and poise, as well as its depth, elegance and restraint.

Early on in Burke’s winemaking career he knew he wanted to establish his own brand, and over a drink with his wife Tammy, he decided to push the boundaries.

“Fermenting whites on skins, super extended time on skins for reds, the use of terracotta vessels — these are an example of what having Bromley has allowed me to do.

“Bromley Wines should be about texture, structure, fragrance and fruit.”

As he looks to the future, Burke’s goal is to continue making wines that people enjoy drinking and gently push the boundaries with his creativity.

For more information, head to the Australian Pinot Noir Challenge Facebook Page.