2014 Alan McCorkindale Chalky Pinot Noir, Waipara Valley

Big style pinot noir with finesse. Dark cherry, red currants and a melange of black forest cake fruits. A seductive pudding spice, wafts through with a silky touch. Soft charry oak pulls a soft punch, giving you an indication of the length it has. This has legs for days, and is a formiddable partner for lamb tajine.

The 2014 Alan McCorkindale Chalky Pinot Noir is a refined expression of Waipara Valley winemaking, showcasing the elegance and complexity of cool-climate Pinot Noir. Sourced from carefully selected vineyards, this wine reflects the region’s unique terroir, characterized by limestone-rich soils and a temperate climate that ensures balanced ripening.

On the nose, the wine reveals an inviting bouquet of ripe red cherries, wild strawberries, and blackcurrants, interwoven with hints of dried herbs, rose petals, and subtle oak spices. Earthy undertones of forest floor and a touch of flinty minerality add depth and intrigue. The palate is vibrant and silky, with fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity providing structure and finesse. Flavors of red and dark berries dominate, accompanied by nuances of clove, cinnamon, and a whisper of savory truffle. The wine’s mineral undertone reflects the "chalky" soils of its origin, adding a unique layer of complexity. The finish is long, elegant, and well-balanced, leaving a lingering impression of bright fruit and spice.

Winemaker Alan McCorkindale’s meticulous approach to viticulture and winemaking emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the vineyard’s natural characteristics to shine. Hand-harvested fruit and careful aging in French oak barrels contribute to the wine’s refined texture and nuanced profile.

This Pinot Noir is a versatile food companion, pairing beautifully with roasted duck, grilled salmon, or mushroom risotto. It also complements soft, earthy cheeses such as Brie or Camembert. While approachable now, the 2014 Chalky Pinot Noir has the structure to age gracefully over the next 5–7 years, developing further complexity with time.