2021 Cloudy Bay Te Wahi Pinot Noir, Central Otago

Noticeable oak; smoky and chocolaty, but there is a deeply concentrated boysenberry, blackberry, rosehip, hibiscus fruit core which rises to meet it. Young but not closed, the palate has elegance and a blooming, backwardness which expands across the finish with length and evolving complexity. Sleek in shape and medium-bodied but flowing, it has sneeky intensity and innate depth. A finely balanced, perfumed and classy effort 22 Mar 2024 Drink 2024–2039

95 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

Cloudy Bay Te Wahi Pinot Noir is a striking, sophisticated expression of Central Otago Pinot that marries the region’s power and intensity with Cloudy Bay’s signature precision and polish. Known globally for its Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Cloudy Bay expanded south to Central Otago in 2009, recognising the region’s potential to produce world-class Pinot Noir. Te Wahi, meaning “the place” in te reo Māori, represents their top Pinot, crafted from select high-altitude vineyards in the rugged subregions of Bendigo and Cromwell.

These vineyard sites sit on glacial and schist-derived soils, with free-draining gravels and low fertility that naturally limit yields and concentrate flavours. The continental climate delivers hot, dry days and cold nights, allowing for slow, even ripening and the development of vibrant aromatics alongside fine tannin structure. The fruit is hand harvested, sorted with precision, and fermented in open-top vessels, with a mix of whole berries and whole bunches to build perfume and complexity. Maturation takes place in French oak barriques, around a third of which are new, adding subtle spice and texture without overshadowing the fruit.

In the glass, Te Wahi has a deep ruby colour with lifted aromas of black cherry, wild raspberry, violets, and hints of thyme, graphite, and exotic spice. The palate is medium to full bodied and beautifully structured, showing concentrated dark fruit layered with savoury herbs, fine tannins, and bright acidity. There’s a sense of power and elegance intertwined, with a long, poised finish that reflects both the intensity of Central Otago and the refinement of Cloudy Bay’s winemaking.

This Pinot pairs wonderfully with dishes like roast duck with cherry glaze, venison with thyme jus, wild mushroom pithivier, or aged cheeses. Its structure also allows it to shine alongside lamb or richly flavoured vegetarian dishes. While approachable now, it will cellar gracefully for 10 to 12 years, developing further savoury complexity and silky texture over time.