2024 Mt Difficulty Bannockburn Pinot Gris, Central Otago

Subtle but innately complex pinot gris. With coaxing, this young wine reveals light flavours of sweet apple, dried herb and nectarine which slowly build towards more honeyed, quince flavours on the almost dry finish. There is plenty of acidity here but the phenolics are remarkably rounded and seamless, adding a slippery mouth-feel to the long flavours before a light bony grip emerges. With considerable air and time, seed and herb spices express themselves on the back-palate. This will unfurl in the coming year and develop complexity for a few more after that 14 Feb 2025 Drink 2025–2030

92 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

Mt Difficulty Bannockburn Pinot Gris from Central Otago is a beautifully expressive white wine that showcases the versatility and elegance of this cool-climate region. Central Otago, known for its extreme climate and long growing season, is an ideal location for producing Pinot Gris, a variety that thrives in these conditions, offering vibrant fruit flavors and a balance of freshness and richness. Mt Difficulty, a well-respected winery known for producing exceptional wines, has crafted this Pinot Gris to highlight the unique terroir of the Bannockburn subregion, which contributes to its depth and complexity.

The Pinot Gris grapes for this wine are sourced from the estate’s Bannockburn vineyards, where the cool nights and warm, sunny days create a slow ripening process that helps the grapes develop concentrated flavors while retaining their natural acidity. The winemaking approach at Mt Difficulty focuses on minimal intervention to allow the true character of the fruit and the region to shine through. The wine is fermented in stainless steel to preserve its fresh fruit profile and vibrant acidity, with a portion aged in neutral oak to add subtle texture and complexity.

In the glass, Mt Difficulty Bannockburn Pinot Gris has a pale straw color with green hues, indicating its youthful vibrancy. The nose is inviting and aromatic, with a bouquet of ripe stone fruits like peach, nectarine, and apricot, complemented by citrus notes of lemon and lime. There are also subtle floral hints of white blossom and a touch of spice, along with a faint mineral quality that adds depth and complexity to the bouquet.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with a smooth, creamy texture balanced by lively acidity. The stone fruit and citrus flavors are fresh and vibrant, with peach, nectarine, and lemon coming to the forefront. The wine’s texture is round and mouth-filling, with a touch of spice and minerality that adds depth. The finish is clean and refreshing, with lingering fruit and a subtle note of spice that leaves a satisfying aftertaste.

Mt Difficulty Bannockburn Pinot Gris is a versatile wine that pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Its bright fruit and balanced acidity make it an excellent match for seafood, such as grilled fish, prawns, or oysters, as well as light salads, goat cheese, or roasted poultry. It also pairs beautifully with dishes like risotto, pasta with creamy sauces, or Thai cuisine, making it a perfect choice for both casual meals and more refined dining experiences.