2020 CENTRAL OTAGO PINOT NOIR Variety/blend 100% Pinot Noir Season summary 2020 was a typical Central Otago summer with a slightly wetter than average spring resulting in ideal canopy growth. January was very dry and hot, ending in a large rainfall event in February. A cool autumn where patience was rewarded where calm, dry weather meant no great risk for extended hang time. Tasting note Bright crimson hue. Alluring lifted aromas of thyme and red cherries. An underlying spicy complexity explodes from the glass. The soft silky texture and fine-grain tannins surround bright red fruits and crunchy acidity which give the wine freshness and length. Viticulture From two parcels, the first from the Lowburn sub region - planted in 2000 on a gentle, north facing slope with a mix of clones and 30% own rooted vines. Soils are predominantly loess over deep silts that have developed pedogenic lime deposits. VSP trained vines planted at 3000 vines.ha. 3rd year of organic conversion in 2020. The second from the Bannockburn sub region - Biogro certified, situated between the Bannockburn inlet and the Kawarau River. Harvested: 9 - 18 April 2020

~ 5 Stars ~
"The 2020 vintage was grown and hand-picked at Manata Estate (formerly Lowburn Ferry) and at Bannockburn. Matured for a year in French oak barrels (25 per cent new), it was then settled and aged for six months in tanks before bottling. Full, bright ruby, it is fragrant and mouthfilling, with concentrated, very vibrant cherry, plum and spice flavours, showing excellent depth and harmony, and ripe, supple tannins. Best drinking 2024+."
- Michael Cooper

~ Metro Top 50 Wines 2023 ~
“Pretty, nutty, mealy with citrus fruit notes, there’s texture, concentration and focus on the palate. Bright and deep, like a cold, dark pool on a tropical island.”
- Metro Top 50 Wines 2023 judging panel

Pyramid Valley Pinot Noir 2020 Central Otago

Quantity