2024 Valli Vineyards Waitaki Pinot Gris, Central Otago

Valli Vineyards Waitaki Pinot Gris from Central Otago is a beautifully crafted wine that highlights the unique qualities of this cool-climate subregion. The Waitaki Valley, one of Central Otago’s most exciting and emerging wine regions, offers a distinctive terroir that imparts elegance and complexity to the wines grown there. Valli Vineyards, known for their commitment to showcasing the best of Central Otago’s diverse subregions, has produced a Pinot Gris that captures the freshness, richness, and balance that this varietal can offer in the Waitaki Valley.

The grapes for the Waitaki Pinot Gris are sourced from the cool, dry climate of the Waitaki Valley, where the combination of long, sunny days and cool nights allows the fruit to develop vibrant acidity and concentrated flavors. The region’s limestone-rich soils also contribute to the wine’s crispness and minerality, creating a well-balanced, expressive Pinot Gris. The winemaking process at Valli focuses on minimal intervention to let the fruit and terroir shine, with fermentation in stainless steel to preserve the freshness of the wine and enhance its vibrant fruit character.

In the glass, Valli Waitaki Pinot Gris has a pale straw color with hints of green, indicating its youthful freshness. The nose is aromatic and expressive, with a beautiful mix of ripe stone fruits, such as peach, nectarine, and apricot, along with citrus notes of lemon and lime. There’s also a subtle floral character, with hints of honeysuckle and white blossom, as well as 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 that is balanced by vibrant acidity. The fruit flavors are rich and expressive, with peach, apricot, and citrus leading the way, while the wine’s minerality provides a refreshing lift. The finish is clean, with lingering fruit and a touch of spice that adds an intriguing complexity to the aftertaste.

Valli Vineyards Waitaki Pinot Gris is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its fresh acidity and fruit-forward character 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 wonderfully with creamy pastas, risottos, or dishes with a touch of spice, such as Thai or Indian cuisine. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a meal, this Pinot Gris is a perfect expression of the Waitaki Valley’s cool-climate potential.