2022 Burn Cottage Pinot Noir, Central Otago

The 2022 Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir is light and fine, with a delicate array of cherry, strawberry, red apple and freshly pressed linen notes. Woven throughout is sweet tobacco, graphite, white tea and finely ground pink peppercorns. In the mouth, the acidity works with the tannins to penetrate the palate with flavor, and it has an ethereal quality to it, which marks it as distinctly different from the Sauvage Pinot Noir. This is an eminently pretty Pinot Noir and comes highly recommended. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under natural cork.

95 points Erin Larkin robertparker.com

Burn Cottage Pinot Noir from Central Otago is a wine that captures the essence of one of New Zealand’s most celebrated wine regions. Central Otago, known for its extreme climate and dramatic landscapes, produces Pinot Noir with incredible depth, balance, and complexity. Burn Cottage, a biodynamic winery founded by the renowned winemaker Ted Lemon, has made a name for itself by crafting wines that not only reflect the unique terroir but also embody the spirit of the land.

Burn Cottage's Pinot Noir is sourced from the estate’s carefully tended vineyards in the Cromwell Basin, where the combination of hot summers and cool nights allows the Pinot Noir grapes to ripen slowly, developing a rich flavor profile while maintaining bright acidity. The winery’s biodynamic approach means that every step of production respects the natural rhythms of the land, allowing the grapes to express their purest form. The winemaking process involves minimal intervention, with fermentation in open-top fermenters and aging in French oak barrels to enhance the wine's complexity.

The wine itself showcases a deep ruby color with a vibrant clarity. The nose is a beautiful mix of red fruit—think ripe raspberries, strawberries, and cherries—complemented by subtle notes of violet, herbs, and a touch of spice. There’s a hint of earthy undertones that give the wine its signature Central Otago character, and a faint smokiness that adds to its allure. On the palate, Burn Cottage Pinot Noir is medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a lively acidity that keeps the wine fresh and balanced. The red fruit flavors are pure and bright, with layers of complexity from the oak aging, including nuances of cinnamon, clove, and a touch of toasted oak. The finish is long and satisfying, with a harmonious blend of fruit, spice, and earthiness.

This Pinot Noir is an incredibly versatile wine that pairs well with a wide range of dishes. It’s perfect with roasted meats, particularly duck or lamb, as well as grilled salmon or mushroom-based dishes. It also complements a variety of cheeses, including soft cheeses or even aged varieties like Gruyère. Whether you’re enjoying it with a meal or savoring it on its own, Burn Cottage Pinot Noir offers a stunning reflection of the unique terroir of Central Otago.