Back in February, I had the opportunity to attend Pinot Noir 2025 in Christchurch, New Zealand. This event proved to be quite special, particularly because it allowed me to explore a diverse array of Pinot Noir wines from across the country. Having participated in these gatherings for the last 15 years, I noticed significant progress in New Zealand’s approach to this varietal. The emphasis has shifted towards capturing a true sense of place rather than relying heavily on winemaking techniques, resulting in a fascinating stylistic variety and allowing producers to express themselves more boldly.
Regions such as North Canterbury, Central Otago, Wairarapa, and Marlborough all showcased compelling, world-class Pinot Noir. It’s impossible to definitively label one region as superior; each brings its own strength and character to the table.
Below are my highest-rated selections from the tasting, with only one entry per producer to maintain variety. Apologies to those producers whose wines I didn’t manage to sample due to time constraints.
97 Points
- Bell Hill Single Parcel Shelf Pinot Noir 2020, Waikari, North Canterbury: A nose featuring a reductive, spicy, mineral edge, with a profound palate of sweet cherries and layers of complexity. 97/100
- Pyramid Valley Earth Smoke Pinot Noir 2022, Waikari, North Canterbury: This wine has a brooding, spicy nose, emphasizing taut cherry and berry flavors with a smoky minerality. Ethereal and finely detailed. 97/100
- Rippon Tinker’s Field Pinot Noir 2021, Central Otago: With complex aromatics of raspberries and earthy notes, this wine balances refreshing structure with dark and savory elements. 97/100
96 Points
- Amisfield RKV Pinot Noir 2019, Central Otago: Displays good density with lovely fruit concentration; a serious contender. 96/100
- Ata Rangi Kaitinga Pinot Noir 2021, Martinborough: This single-vineyard wine exhibits brightness and floral expression with supple red fruit character. A perfect blend of power and elegance. 96/100
- Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021, Central Otago: Structured and fine, showcasing intense black cherry notes. 96/100
95 Points
- Dry River Pinot Noir 2023, Martinborough: Bold with elegant textures and vibrant cherry flavors, showcasing sophistication despite its richness. 95/100
- Escarpment Kupe Pinot Noir 2021, Martinborough: Characterized by its lean structure yet generous fruit, harmonizing silkiness with grip. 95/100
- Oraterra Pinot Noir 2023, Martinborough: This wine shines with vivid concentration and structural integrity, offering pure fruit and complexity. 95/100
These wines reflect the exceptional quality and dedication present in New Zealand’s wine industry. Their unique expressions of Pinot Noir highlight why this region is becoming a reference point for this varietal on a global scale.