Pinot Noir Central Otago 2007

Vineyards

Rockburn Pinot Noir 2007 is made from premium vineyards in Central Otago, New Zealand, renowned for producing world-class Pinot Noir. The vines are planted on free-draining alluvial soils with a mix of schist and gravel, which contribute to the wine’s vibrant minerality. Central Otago’s cool climate, with warm days and cool nights, ensures a long ripening period, allowing the grapes to develop intense flavours while retaining natural acidity.

Winemaking

The grapes were hand-harvested and meticulously sorted to ensure only the best fruit was used. Fermentation occurred in small open-top fermenters with wild and selected yeasts, followed by gentle punch-downs for optimal extraction of colour and tannins. The wine was aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, 30% of which were new, adding complexity and structure.

Appearance

Deep ruby red with garnet highlights, showcasing its maturity.

Nose

The nose is expressive and layered, with aromas of black cherry, plum, and raspberry, interwoven with notes of violet, dried herbs, and a hint of smoky oak.

Palate

On the palate, this Pinot Noir is medium-bodied and silky, with flavours of red and black berries, dark chocolate, and a touch of spice. Fine-grained tannins and bright acidity provide balance, leading to a long, elegant finish with lingering notes of earth and mineral.

Food pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with roasted duck, lamb chops, or wild mushroom risotto. Its complexity also complements soft cheeses such as Brie or Camembert.

Background story

Rockburn, established in the early 1990s, has earned a top flight reputation for producing some of Central Otago’s most elegant and expressive Pinot Noirs. Winemaker Malcolm Rees-Francis focuses on showcasing the unique terroir of the region while maintaining a minimalist approach in the winery. The 2007 vintage reflects the estate’s commitment to quality and terroir-driven winemaking, delivering a wine with depth, finesse, and remarkable ageing potential.