2023 Prophet's Rock Rocky Point Pinot Noir, Central Otago

Prophet’s Rock Rocky Point Pinot Noir from Central Otago is a captivating and beautifully pure expression of the region’s rugged alpine terroir. Crafted by winemaker Paul Pujol, one of New Zealand’s most respected Pinot specialists, the wine reflects a deep understanding of both place and variety. Named after the steep, rocky slopes where the vines cling to schist soils above the Clutha River, Rocky Point Pinot Noir combines elegance and vibrancy with the underlying structure and mineral intensity that define Central Otago’s finest wines.

The fruit comes from Prophet’s Rock’s Pisa Range and Bendigo vineyards, where extreme temperature shifts between warm days and cold nights preserve natural acidity and aromatic lift. The grapes are hand picked, fermented with wild yeasts, and a portion of whole bunches is included to add perfume and fine tannin. Maturation takes place in seasoned French oak barrels for around 10 months, ensuring the wine’s vivid fruit remains front and centre while gaining subtle texture and spice.

In the glass it shows a bright ruby hue. The aroma is perfumed and inviting, offering red cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry with hints of thyme, violet, clove and stony earth. The palate is medium bodied and silky, with pure red fruit flavours balanced by refreshing acidity and finely structured tannins. There is a sense of effortless precision and flow, finishing long, savoury and mineral — a hallmark of both the vineyard and Pujol’s understated winemaking.

Prophet’s Rock Rocky Point Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with duck, roast chicken, salmon, or mushroom dishes. It also complements charcuterie, beetroot salad, and mild cheeses. Delicious now for its freshness and charm, it will develop added complexity over 6 to 8 years, gaining notes of forest floor and spice with age.