2023 Peregrine Saddleback Pinot Noir Organic, Central Otago

From the dramatic alpine landscapes of Central Otago, Peregrine Wines has built a strong reputation for producing expressive cool climate wines that reflect the purity and intensity of the region. The winery was founded in 1998 by the McLachlan family, with vineyards established across several of Central Otago’s key subregions including Gibbston, Bannockburn and Pisa. Peregrine takes its name from the native New Zealand falcon, the kārearea, which often circles above the vineyards. The estate has long been committed to organic viticulture, believing that healthier soils and balanced vines lead to wines with greater clarity and character.

The Saddleback range represents the vibrant and approachable side of the Peregrine portfolio while still showcasing the region’s distinctive terroir. The fruit is grown organically in the estate’s vineyards where schist based soils, intense sunlight and cool nights help Pinot Noir develop both aromatic lift and fine structure. These conditions allow the grapes to ripen slowly, preserving freshness while building flavour and depth.

The wine shows a bright ruby red colour with excellent clarity. Aromas rise from the glass with red cherry, wild strawberry and raspberry layered with rose petal, subtle spice and hints of forest floor. As the wine evolves further notes of dried herbs and gentle earthy complexity begin to emerge, reflecting the cool climate origins of the fruit.

The palate is lively and finely structured with silky tannins supporting flavours of red berries, cranberry and savoury spice. Fresh acidity provides energy and balance, carrying the wine across the palate toward a long refined finish. There is a lovely sense of purity and elegance that makes the wine highly drinkable while still offering the structure to develop additional nuance over the next six to eight years.