Once a year, an independent jury selects twelve outstanding Pinot Noirs from Central Otago — a cross-section of vintage and region. Falstaff has taken a closer look at the selection and presents the highlights of the Central Dozen 2023.
The year 2023 proved to be a challenging one. Cyclone Gabrielle devastated large parts of the North Island of New Zealand, while Central Otago remained largely unaffected. The summer in the region was warm and dry, but shortly before the harvest, frost and rainfall caused problems for the winegrowers. Those who worked carefully were able to harvest concentrated, healthy grapes. And although Central Otago covers around 1900 hectares, divided into six sub-regions, the 2023 vintage is considered remarkably consistent in quality. Compared to the more approachable, fruit-driven 2022 vintage, the wines from 2023 are more structured and complex — with concentrated fruit, fine tannins and great aging potential.
Check the top 3 Pinot Noirs: Pinot Noir Block 5 Felton Road, Pinot Noir Bendigo Moko Hills, Pinot Noir Burn Cottage