2024 Peregrine Saddleback Pinot Gris, Central Otago

It's delightfully fruited and immediately appealing on the nose with Nashi pear, rockmelon, fig and white floral nuances. The palate delivers succulent fruit intensity with silky texture and bright acidity, making it harmonious and balanced with a lengthy, refreshing finish. At its best: now to 2027. 

93 points Sam Kim wineorbit.com

From the dramatic alpine landscapes of Central Otago, Peregrine Saddleback Pinot Gris reflects the winery’s commitment to expressive cool climate whites shaped by altitude, sunlight and schist rich soils. Peregrine has built a strong following for wines that combine organic vineyard practices with a precise, modern winemaking approach. The Saddleback range is crafted to highlight purity of fruit and regional freshness, offering generous flavour wrapped in vibrant structure.

A pale straw gold with silver green highlights gleams in the glass. Aromas unfold with ripe pear, white nectarine and apple blossom layered with ginger spice, citrus zest and a gentle mineral lift. There is an inviting softness to the bouquet balanced by bright alpine clarity.

The palate is medium bodied and silky, delivering orchard fruit and citrus flavours framed by refreshing acidity and a subtle textural grip. Notes of quince, spice and a faint saline nuance build through the mid palate, leading to a clean, flowing finish that feels both generous and lively. Enjoyable now for its fruit charm and balance, this Pinot Gris will continue to develop added savoury complexity over the next four to six years.

Ricotta gnudi with burnt butter sliding across the table, grilled peach and prosciutto salads shared outdoors, or spicy prawn noodles devoured with chopsticks as dusk settles. A spin of The Beths Expert in a Dying Field or something relaxed from Unknown Mortal Orchestra drifting through the air, the wine slipping easily into a night that feels bright, social and quietly memorable.