2022 Rippon Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir, Central Otago

Deeply fragrant and perfumed, this offers aromas of wild strawberries, dark cherries, violets, lead pencil and potpourri. The refined and pure palate has finely integrated tannins, bright acidity and a generous texture, giving notes of raspberries, blood oranges, forest floor and bark. Firmly structured with a savory undertone. Pure sophistication, showing a soft touch in the vineyard and winery. Drink or hold.

97 points James Suckling

Rippon is one of New Zealand's most revered wineries, with the Mills family farming their spectacular Lake Wānaka property for generations. Under the guidance of Nick Mills, the biodynamically managed estate has become a benchmark for site expressive Pinot Noir, producing wines that faithfully reflect one of the world's most breathtaking vineyard settings.

The Mature Vine Pinot Noir is sourced from established vines rooted in glacial schist soils overlooking Lake Wānaka. The combination of high altitude, intense sunlight and cool alpine nights produces Pinot Noir of remarkable perfume, purity and structure, capturing the distinctive character that has made Rippon a cult name among collectors.

The colour is a brilliant ruby red with youthful crimson highlights. Aromas of wild cherry, raspberry and red plum are layered with rose petals, thyme, forest floor and sweet spice. The palate is silky and beautifully detailed, combining vibrant red fruits with fine tannins and lively acidity. Layers of dried herbs, crushed schist and earthy complexity emerge through the long, savoury finish, delivering exceptional balance and finesse.

Magnificent with duck breast, venison loin, mushroom risotto, roast quail or grilled salmon with wild herbs. Drinking beautifully now while the purity and structure promise graceful evolution over the next decade and beyond.