Central Otago "China Terrace" Pinot Noir 2013, Gibbston Valley

This is the original winery in the Gibbston Valley district which is set well apart from the Cromwell basin districts at a higher altitude. The name recalls the history of gold mining in the area - literally where vineyards are today located. This is one of few vineyards planted on a clay soil and the vines date from 2001. Reflecting the high ultra violet exposure on the 45th parallel of the Southern Hemisphere, the wine has a deep colour and full cherry nose. There are notes of sweet herbs, balsamic vinegar and raspberry liqueur without too much evidence of the 10 months barrel ageing in 20% new oak. Savoury style balanced by plenty of rich cherry fruit which comes through on the mid-palate. This pinot is priced at NZ $70 from the cellar door which equates to €47 from a Burgundy cellar door so this wine needs to be compared with a 1er Cru from a top quartile producer in a "big" village like Pommard, Gevrey, Morey or Vosne.