Terra Sancta Shingle Beach Pinot Noir 2022

Terra Sancta Shingle Beach Pinot Noir is a finely detailed Bannockburn Pinot Noir with violets, rose, plum and redcurrant layered over wild herbs, liquorice, earthy tones and savoury spice. Fine tannins and a mineral edge give the fruit definition, while the long finish carries plenty of spice and freshness. Shingle Beach is an unusually densely planted block beside the Kawarau River, with vines rooted in glacial schist gravels and a seam of limestone. It is a smart choice for Pinot drinkers who enjoy perfume and texture alongside Central Otago fruit richness. Try it with roast duck or a creamy mushroom and truffle risotto.

What the winery says:

The 2022 comes from the Shingle Beach block of Terra Sancta Estate in Bannockburn, planted at more than three times standard vineyard density and sitting around 220 metres above sea level. The soils combine glacial schist gravels with a dense seam of limestone. Terra Sancta describes the wine as fragrant and layered, with violets, rose, fresh herbs, blue fruits, bramble, plum, redcurrant, star anise and liquorice, supported by fine tannins and a long, pure finish. It was wild fermented in large-format French oak puncheons with 15% new oak, underwent spontaneous malolactic fermentation, and received no additions other than minimal sulphur before bottling. The winery suggests cellaring through to 2033.

What the experts say:

James Suckling, 96 Points (2022 Vintage)
"A really juicy pinot with ripe strawberry, citrus skin and rose stem aromas and flavors. Medium- to full-bodied with a creamy texture and a juicy and crunchy sensibility. Los of flavor and softness at the end. Enticing. Drink or hold. Screw cap."

Stephen Wong MW, The Real Review, 93 Points and 4 Stars (2022 Vintage)
“Arrestingly exotic perfume with incense, sandalwood, pot-pourri, wild berry and dried thyme unfolding in layers from the nose. The palate is light and restrained, with the red berry and floral flavours held firmly in check by a distinctly herbal frame which persists through to the finely dry, chalky finish. A sophisticated young wine which is presently a bit awkward, there is an elegance and flow to the palate which suggests it will settle and come around in a year or two, revealing the bony, filigree detail which lies within”