International Pinot Noir Tasting

After beginning his own small label with a friend in the 1990s, Paul McArdle completed the demanding UK-based Master of Wine qualification in 2003. Since then, he has held various executive roles in top wineries, including Fraser Gallop, Howard Park and Higher Plane. Today, McArdle is CEO for Overstory, overseeing two vineyards in Tasmania under the label Small Wonder, as well as Wayfinder Vineyard, Margaret River and Wayfinder cellar door Dunsborough, and Small Story Merchants, a wine import and distribution company based in Melbourne, Victoria.

Melanie Chester is General Manage and Chief Winemaker at Giant Steps. Her wine industry experience spans diverse estates such as d’Arenberg in the McLaren Vale, Charles Melton in the Barossa, Quinta do Crasto in Portugal’s Douro Valley, and Sutton Grange Winery in Central Victoria, where her influence on winemaking and viticulture led to multi trophy winning wines. She is also a sought-after wine judge and has served as Chair of Judges at the prestigious Melbourne Royal Wine Awards.

Nick Ryan’s journey into wine began with youthful raids on his father’s cellar and a rebellious departure from university in Adelaide. After moving to Sydney, his palate led him to one of the city’s leading wine merchants—though he soon realised writing about wine was far easier than carrying it.
Today, Ryan is one of Australia’s most respected wine voices. He is the senior wine writer for The Australian, a columnist for The World of Fine Wine, and a contributor to Halliday Magazine and Robb Report. An experienced wine show judge and sought-after event presenter, he brings a sharp wit and deep knowledge to every glass.

Now based in the Clare Valley, Ryan is most intrigued by wines that hold your attention from the first sip to the fourth glass. He would, however, trade it all for just one game with the Port Adelaide Football Club.