Felton Road is responsible, to a large extent, for putting Central Otago on the world Pinot Noir map. The wines are, well not so much fruit-driven, as perhaps turbo-charged! Amazing levels of red fruits, a subtle yet important savoury component, along with the silky texture all Pinot enthusiasts long for. This single-block wine shows how different portions of a single vineyard can still have a quite unique character, or what the French would call terrior.

Mud House have asserted a reputation for Pinot Noir in a crowded New Zealand marketplace by proving excellent varietal and terroir driven examples like this Golden Terraces Vineyard Pinot Noir from Central Otago at some great prices. With lifted aromas of dark cherry and berry fruit with underlying notes of mocha and cinnamon giving way to a sumptuous palate of bramble and spice characters with considerable length.

As often happens with Calvert, the nose when young is slightly muted and more direct than exotic; pure and fine aromas, not bold and lush. The palate follows on accordingly, with clarity of fruit, roses and florals. Focussed, concentrated yet pure in the mid-palate, with its hallmark mineral texture, its firm but ultimately juicy on the finish. The vines are growing up and were seeing the puppy-fat turn to muscle.

Planted on terraces and alluvial schist based soils formed by the Mata-Au (Clutha) River producing perfumed wines with elegant texture, structure and mineral length.

Terra Sancta Estate Pinot Noir is a bright crimson-red hued wine. The fragrant bouquet is perfumed with lavender and thyme, while the dense and lively palate is rife with flavours of plums, dark cherries and fresh raspberries, ultimately leading to a long, silky and delicate climax. Crafted to relish upon release, this delightful Pinot Noir can also be cellared for about 10 years. Drink this aromatic red wine with slow roast pork belly and roast turkey.

Freshly picked strawberries, raspberries and red rose petals on opening, followed by darker notes of black cherry, roasted star anise and cinnamon. The palate is juicy and soft, with fine tannins and bright acidity. A perfect and accessible snapshot of Central Otago.

The dried raspberry, lemon curd and Asian pear flavours are crisp and detailed, with notes of white flowers, five-spice powder and toast leading to a long, lingering, juicy finish. Offers an appealing mix of power and finesse. Drink now.

VALLI Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir, Central Otago

Award winning Central Otago Pinot noir from New Zealand. Violets and cherries have leading roles with hints of thyme. The palate shows youth with a generous fruit weight.