Bannockburn Pinot Noir, Felton Road 2024

Pure aromas of strawberries, orange peel, sandalwood and potpourri. It’s medium-bodied with firm yet fine tannins and a crisp and delicious finish. So attractive now, with just the right amount of tension at the end. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

The 2024 Bannockburn Pinot Noir is dark fruited and plush, with nutmeg biscuit and cranberry, blood plum and mulberry. The wine is exotic and peppered with baking spices—one assumes this is via the oak rather than the fruit. 2024 was a superb vintage in Central Otago, and the wines that I have seen so far echo this. It seems this wine just needs a little more time—or a decant—in order to show its best. It's very impressive regardless. 13.8% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2025-2034.

This wine makes my heart beat faster. It is delicate yet powerful, ethereal but wonderfully harmonious. I love its beautifully nuanced array of flavours that are displayed like the colours on a peacock’s tail and linger long after the wine has been swallowed. I have a cast-iron rule that prevents me from swallowing wine samples during tastings. I managed to stick to my guns. It wasn’t easy.

Attractive and ready to drink from release, the 2024 Pinot Noir Bannockburn is pure and unadulterated with aromas of freshly picked blackberries, black cherry and blueberry. The palate is very welcoming, with juicy, succulent fruit and a softness on the mid-palate. The medium-long finish is scented and attractive, with spices, cedar and a sense of line. This is a very pleasurable but classy Pinot from the off.