Region: New Zealand, Central Otago

Grape variety: Pinot Noir

Tasting notes: Lifted red fruit, violet and spicy blackcurrant aromatics. Followed by a suave, textural palate showing lots of density, complexity and persistence. Red cherry, plum, blackberry bramble and spice aromatics give way to a rich, warmly textured wine exuding lush fruit, softness, elegance and poise.

Reviews

Mark Henderson, Otago Daily Times (August 2023), Outstanding: "A beguiling nose draws you in, earthy/humus notes, raspberry, spices, berry coulis, wisp of herb, intrigue. Wonderful definition, raspberry, cherry, berry fruit, savoury touches, depth to the fruit expression yet pinosity too. Delightful grainy character flows to super lip-smacking sapidity, flavours hanging in the mouth. Vibrant, refreshing and speaks of potential."

Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (July 2023), 96 Points: “Stylish and seductive, the wine shows dark plum, assorted nut, thyme, cured meat and rich floral aromas on the nose, followed by a wonderfully weighted palate displaying silky flow and fleshy texture. Tannins are fine and beautifully infused, making the wine gorgeously harmonious and persistent. A blend of grapes from Bannockburn, Earnscleugh & Gibbston Vineyards. Certified organic. At its best: 2025 to 2037.”

Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review (July 2023), 96 Points: “#1 of 21 2022 Pinot Noir from Central Otago; Wine of the Week - July 24 "Rich, concentrated pinot noir with cassis, dark chocolate, ripe berry/blackberry and a smattering of spicy oak. Impressive intensity with fruit smothering ripe tannins and giving a boost to drinkability despite the wine's obvious ageing potential. Very impressive. 2023–2035."

New Zealand Wines: Michael Cooper’s Buyer’s Guide (July 2023): "Certified organic, the impressive 2022 vintage (5*) was estate-grown at Bannockburn (47 per cent), Alexandra (31 per cent) and Gibbston (22 per cent), and matured for 11 months in French oak barriques (18 per cent new). Full, bright ruby, it is mouthfilling, savoury and supple, with strong, youthful cherry, plum and spice flavours, oak complexity, and excellent depth, vibrancy and harmony. A very ageworthy red, it's well worth cellaring to mid-2025+."

ORGANIC