2023 McArthur Ridge Wines Southern Tor Pinot Noir, Central Otago

Trophy for Champion Pinot Noir New Zealand International Wine Show 2024

Ruby red in colour with a bouquet of savoury red berry fruit, black cherry and vanilla that combine with aromas of Black Forest berries, cloves and dark violets, finishing with soft stony notes. Generous on the palate with a core of fruit, savoury tannins give it great texture. The oak influence is obvious with baking spices and smokiness. Another Central Otago Star

McArthur Ridge Wines Southern Tor Pinot Noir from Central Otago is a sleek, vibrant expression of Pinot from the windswept hills of the Alexandra Basin. Known for its extreme diurnal shifts and ancient schist soils, this subregion produces Pinot with intensity, structure and real personality—and Southern Tor wears that signature with confidence.

Fruit is picked from low-yielding vines that thrive in the harsh, sun-drenched landscape. Winemaking is focused on preserving fruit purity, with a mix of wild and cultured ferments and gentle oak handling to keep things bright and balanced. It’s a modern Central Otago Pinot that leans into elegance over power, while still bringing plenty of flavour to the table.

Aromas of red cherry, cranberry and crushed raspberry jump out, alongside notes of wild thyme, rose petal and subtle spice. The palate is silky and fresh, with fine tannins, vibrant acidity and a core of juicy red fruit. There’s a lovely mineral lift and savoury edge that gives the wine focus and length.

It’s a natural with duck confit, pork belly, chargrilled salmon or earthy dishes like lentil stew or mushroom risotto. Approachable now but with enough structure to cellar for a few years, it’s a great example of what makes the Alexandra Basin so exciting.