2024 Domaine Thomson Explorer Pinot Noir, Otago

Pinot noir sourced from the Moon Block of Domaine Thomson's 14ha Lowburn estate. Bright, deep ruby with characters of red and dark plum, wild strawberry and dark cherry fruits over hints of Medina spice, crushed herbs, pressed wildflowers, charcuterie, leaf litter, dried porcini and earth. Some nice space and detail on the palate with a savoury lean to its travel. Bright, saline acidity, defined, silty tannins and a lingering, complex finish.

93 points Special Value Dave Brookes for Halliday Wine Companion

The Explorer range celebrates the adventurous spirit that inspired Domaine Thomson, honouring the pioneering legacy of surveyor John Turnbull Thomson, whose work helped map much of New Zealand's South Island. Crafted from selected Central Otago vineyards, this Pinot Noir captures the region's vibrant fruit, cool climate freshness and rugged beauty in an approachable, expressive style.

The 2024 vintage delivered beautifully balanced fruit, with warm days and cool alpine nights encouraging slow ripening and exceptional flavour development. Gentle handling in the winery and restrained oak maturation preserve the purity of the fruit while highlighting the distinctive character that has made Central Otago one of the world's great Pinot Noir regions.

Bright ruby with crimson highlights, the bouquet opens with aromas of wild strawberry, cherry and raspberry layered with thyme, subtle spice and delicate forest floor notes. The palate is silky and energetic, combining juicy red berry fruit with fine tannins, lively acidity and a savoury mineral thread. Fresh, vibrant and beautifully balanced, the finish lingers with spice, herbs and refined Pinot character.

Enjoy with roast duck, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, chargrilled lamb cutlets or a board of artisan cheeses. Deliciously approachable in its youth, this expressive Pinot Noir will continue to reward careful cellaring over the next five to seven years.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2032.