2024 Mt Difficulty Bannockburn Pinot Noir, Central Otago

Primary and youthful with raspberry, sweet strawberry, cinnamon and anise spice which soaks into the palate with good concentration of flavour. A compact shape and ripe fruit tannins firm up towards something woodier on the finish while remaining densely packed around the mid-palate. Good length and unevolved at present. This will relax in the next year or two 20 Nov 2025 Drink 2027–2035

93 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

From the sun soaked terraces of Bannockburn, this Pinot Noir captures the darker, more structured side of Central Otago while keeping the region’s signature perfume and freshness. Mt Difficulty farms vineyards rooted in schist and loess soils overlooking the Kawarau River, where intense alpine light and cold nights build concentration without sacrificing acidity. Bannockburn is known for producing Pinot with both power and mineral tension, and this wine leans confidently into that identity.

Winemaking focuses on texture and balance. Gentle extraction preserves aromatic lift, while careful oak integration adds frame and savoury complexity rather than sweetness. The aim is a Pinot that feels generous yet architectural, shaped by site more than cellar.

In the glass it shows a deep ruby with garnet tones. Aromas are layered and expressive, opening with black cherry, plum and wild strawberry, followed by thyme, spice, forest floor and a faint smoky mineral note. There is a cool alpine freshness that lifts the bouquet.

The palate is medium to full bodied, with dark berry fruit wrapped in fine tannins and bright acidity. Flavours echo the nose, cherry, raspberry and savoury herbs, finishing long with a mineral edge that tightens the wine and gives precision. The texture is silky but structured, balancing richness with tension.

It pairs beautifully with duck, lamb, venison and mushroom driven dishes. Drinking impressively now with air, it will cellar comfortably for eight to twelve years, developing deeper earthy and gamey complexity.

This is Bannockburn Pinot in a confident voice, ripe yet disciplined, alpine power anchored by mineral backbone.