Valli Gibbston Pinot Noir 2023

Accolades:
96/100 – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
95/100 – Stephen Wong MW, The Real Review
94/100 – James Suckling
93+/100 – Cameron Douglas MS

“Evident whole-bunch spice complexity here with grainy, tight tannins, refreshing acidity and a deep but restrained palate of floral-infused black fruit. Mid-weight, concentrated but serious and currently quite austere, there is a mineral core to the sinewy palate which needs time to resolve. Concentrated and ripe without being boisterous. Restrained power with good ageing potential.” – Stephen Wong MW

“Lovely, bright fruit with black cherries, strawberries and orange peel as well as hints of peaches. Medium-bodied, this has firm tannins that are caressing and delicious. Fluid and attractive at the end. Drink or hold.” – James Suckling

“The 2023 Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Noir is fresh, juicy and texturally detailed, with chalky, supple tannins that fill the mouth and saline acidity that courses through the layers of floral, red-berry fruit. There is real drive and elegance here. It’s a superb wine, as all of these Valli Pinots tend to be.” – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

“Moderately deep ruby-red, lighter on the rim. The nose is elegantly presented, with a whiff of medicinal/ herbaceous nuance, unfolding Bing cherry, strawberry, raspberry, hibiscus, vanilla and spices. Medium-bodied aromas of strawberry, cherry and raspberry intertwined with hibiscus, vanilla, and cinnamon, along with thyme, vine leaf and a suggestion of liquorice. Ripe acidity laces the palate, and dusty tannin lightly adorns and carries a captivating closing. A graceful Pinot Noir shows deep nuances and balanced spice on a refined, dusty mouthfeel.” – Candice Chow

Tasting Note: “Bright garnet hue with savoury/spice aromas of wild thyme, rosemary, fennel and mushroom complemented by dark cherry, ripe strawberry and dried rose petals. The elegantly structured palate is layered and compact with a purposeful flow, much like an alpine river in springtime. This exceptional vintage has the fine tannins and exquisite perfume that are the hallmarks of Gibbston Pinot Noir. Concentrated and delicious at release, this wine will continue to provide enjoyment for 20+/- years.” – Jen Parr

Winemaking Notes: Harvested on 4th, 8th, 9th, 14th, 16th & 27th April 2023. 25% whole bunch fruit, aged in 27% new oak for 11 months. Unfined, unfiltered. 2,600 dozen total production.

Alcohol Volume: 14.0%

Variety: Pinot Noir

Region: Gibbston, Central Otago, New Zealand