New Zealand pinot noir continues to collect rave reviews from every corner. Many of the star performers come from Central Otago.
2012 Two Degrees Pinot Noir
A relatively new player on the Central Otago winescape, the name comes from the vineyard's location with only two degrees separating the Pisa Range and the Clutha River. That separation is just enough for the vines to dodge the annoying frosts of the Otago winter and for pinot grapes to fully ripen. Hand-harvested and producing a lighter but well balanced wine with strong sweet berry flavours and a touch of sweet oak.
2009 Bannock Brae Barrel Selection Pinot Noir
Not made in huge numbers but well worth seeking out. Winemaker Jen Parr brings a deft touch to creating one of the smoothest pinots you could encounter. Due to the exceptional quality in the barrel this wine had no fining or filtering - a process that usually happens with most wines. It has already received a clutch of well-deserved accolades and leans towards a seamless savoury style - a perfectly balanced wine.
2012 Quartz Reef Bendigo Estate Pinot Noir
The Austrian Rudi Bauer knows how to combine traditional practices with new, innovative techniques. Result? A wine of beauty and grace with subtlety and finely tuned smooth tannins. Just when you thought it was all light, perfumed aromatic herbs, a wave of power kicks in that seems to last forever. Succulent and perfect with venison or duck.
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