2023 High Garden Pinot Noir, Gibbston Valley

Sourced exclusively from the four-hectare, 2002-planted High Garden Vineyard, situated at 430 – 500m altitude on schist rocks over gravelly glacial loess. 

Natural fermentation with vineyard yeasts, three weeks on skins. Slow MLF in French barriques over winter and spring prior to maturation and bottling in autumn. No fining or filtering.

“A lovely strawberry pastille, hint of Campari/white pepper aromas. Supple and minerally with ample strawberry glacé, red cherry fruits, a touch of marzipan, loose-knit fine lacy/ chalky textures, attractive mid palate viscosity and well-integrated acidity. Finishes peppery with a light sappy/ grippy tail. Refined, generous and vigorous. A pinot noir for Barolo drinkers. Really delicious with lovely flow, torque and mineral length. I decanted this with brilliant results. Drink now or keep. 13.1% alc . Another gorgeous vintage from High Garden.” 

96 Points, Andrew Caillard MW, 96 Points, Bob Campbell MW

Fabulous bouquet of site, complexity, variety, region and style. Jenn Parr at her best with this expression from the Gibbston high altitude site. Flavours of gently savoury spiced dark cherry, layers of bramble and oak spice, boysenberry and sweet oak, plums and rocky soil foundation. Taut and dry with firm polished tannins and plenty of acidity, a building complexity as the wine opens out in glass. poised and lengthy a wine best enjoyed after cellaring from 2030 through 2040.

95 points Outstanding Cameron Douglas MS camdouglasms.com

High Garden Pinot Noir from Gibbston Valley is an elegant, high-altitude expression of Central Otago Pinot Noir, showcasing the finesse and vibrancy that the region is renowned for. Sourced from meticulously tended vineyards in the cool, elevated slopes of the Gibbston sub-region, this wine reflects the unique terroir, where long, sunny days and chilly nights create Pinot Noir with intense aromatics, bright acidity, and fine structure.

In the glass, it shines with a radiant ruby hue. The nose is beautifully perfumed, offering aromas of wild strawberry, red cherry, and crushed raspberry, intertwined with floral notes of rose petal and violet. Subtle hints of dried herbs, forest floor, and a touch of spice from gentle oak aging add depth without overshadowing the vibrant fruit.

On the palate, High Garden Pinot Noir is silky and refined, with juicy red fruit flavors balanced by bright acidity and fine-grained tannins. Flavors of cranberry, pomegranate, and red plum unfold alongside savoury spice, earthy undertones, and a hint of minerality. The finish is long, elegant, and refreshing, leaving traces of red berries, spice, and delicate floral notes.

This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roast duck, grilled salmon, or mushroom-based dishes. It also complements charcuterie, soft cheeses, and Mediterranean vegetable plates. While drinking beautifully now, it has the structure to age gracefully for 5–8 years, developing further complexity while retaining its vibrant core.

High Garden Pinot Noir is a true reflection of Gibbston Valley’s cool-climate winemaking—refined, expressive, and undeniably captivating.