2023 Rockburn Pinot Noir, Central Otago

Immediately enticing bouquet with complexity and spice, ripe red berry fruit aromas of raspberry and plums, some blackcurrant and dried herb complexities. Dry and complex on the palate with flavours, textures and a delicious mouthfeel. Judicious use of oak with some toasty spice layers, varietal and new, ripe tannins and backbone of acidity. Well made with best drinking from as early as late 2024 through 2034.

95 points Outstanding Cam Douglas MS camdouglasms.com

Seductively perfumed, the enticing bouquet shows dark plum, violet, olive and mushroom nuances with an elegant oak infusion. The palate offers excellent concentration and weight, wonderfully complemented by plush texture and finely pitched tannins. Wonderfully harmonious and persistent with stylish complexity. At its best: 2025 to 2036. 

95 points Sam Kin wineorbit.co.nz

Elegant pinot with crushed strawberry, black cherry, blackberry and dried herb flavours balanced by fine, peppery tannins that leave a drying and quite lengthy finish. A mix of fruit and savoury flavours adds complexity 03 Aug 2024 Drink 2024–2031

94 points Bob Campbell MW therealreview.com

A beautifully crafted cool-climate red wine that captures the intensity and elegance for which the region is renowned. Central Otago, known for its dramatic landscapes and extreme diurnal temperature shifts, provides the perfect conditions for growing world-class Pinot Noir. The region’s schist and gravel soils, combined with long, dry summers and cool nights, allow the grapes to ripen slowly, developing concentrated flavors while retaining vibrant acidity. Rockburn, an acclaimed winery dedicated to producing wines that reflect the purity of their environment, takes a minimal intervention approach to winemaking, ensuring that each vintage expresses the unique characteristics of its terroir.

On the palate, Rockburn Pinot Noir offers a rich and velvety texture, with flavors of ripe dark cherries, blackberries, and wild strawberries layered with subtle notes of forest floor, dried herbs, and spice. Delicate hints of clove, cinnamon, and a touch of oak-derived vanilla provide depth and complexity, while fine tannins and bright acidity create a beautifully balanced structure. Aromas of violets, redcurrants, and earthy undertones further enhance the wine’s complexity, leading to a long, refined finish with lingering fruit and spice notes.

Rockburn Pinot Noir pairs effortlessly with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal. It complements roasted duck, grilled salmon, and mushroom risotto, while also pairing well with charcuterie, soft cheeses, and herb-infused dishes. Its elegance and bright acidity make it an ideal wine for both casual and fine dining occasions. Enjoy it now for its vibrant fruit expression or cellar it for several years to allow further development and complexity.