Main Divide Pinot Noir 2023

Main Divide Pinot Noir is a 2023 North Canterbury Pinot Noir that brings together bright cherry and pomegranate fruit with violet, cinnamon and a savoury thread of earth, smoke and spice. Made by the Donaldson family behind Pegasus Bay, it has a sleek, silky feel, lively acidity and enough fine tannin to keep everything neatly in line. There is real character here without unnecessary weight, making it an easy choice for Pinot drinkers who enjoy freshness alongside savoury complexity. Pair it with roast duck, lamb shoulder or mushroom risotto.

What the winery says:

Fruit from several blocks was picked at differing levels of maturity to capture both red and dark fruit flavours. Around 40% whole bunches were placed beneath destemmed whole berries, followed by a cool soak, natural fermentation and gentle plunging. The wine underwent natural malolactic fermentation and matured for 18 months in French oak barriques, approximately 20% new. Dry and 13% alcohol, it offers cherry, pomegranate, cinnamon and violet alongside wet stone, bonfire embers and savoury complexity, with velvety tannins and a focused finish. The winery suggests cellaring for six to eight years.

What the experts say:

Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews, 18+/20 and 91 points (2023)
“The nose is soft and coy, with aromas of red cherry, plum, hints of earth, mushroom and spice.”