2025 Mt Difficulty Roaring Meg Pinot Gris, Central Otago

Well-made, densely textured and aromatic. Sliced apples, green pears and mild spices on the nose follow through to a medium body with crisp acidity. The lively center palate has a precise and vibrant finish. Sustainable. Drink now.

92 points James Suckling, October 2025

Mt Difficulty was one of Central Otago's founding producers, built on fruit from Bannockburn vineyards and now one of the region's most recognised names. The Roaring Meg wines draw on fruit from satellite vineyards in the Cromwell Basin, and are made to be approachable from the moment it's opened. The name comes from a small hydroelectric station on the Kawarau River and is a nod to Central Otago's pioneering past.

The Pinot Gris is processed swiftly after harvest to retain freshness and aromatics, fermented at cool temperatures in stainless steel with a small amount of residual sugar left to balance the wine's natural acidity. The result is juicy and vibrant rather than weighty or textural.

Pale gold, the nose shows jasmine, green pear and lychee with a grapefruit lift. The palate is fresh and buoyant with red apple, yellow plum and citrus, the off-dry sweetness barely perceptible against the bright acidity.

Clean cut and very easy to drink. Would work a treat with Vietnamese fresh spring rolls or Thai style green papaya salad, maybe with some grilled prawns. Serve well chilled.

Drink now through 2027.