The Last Shepherd Central Otago Pinot Noir 2024

The Last Shepherd Central Otago Pinot Noir takes its name from the shepherds who once worked Central Otago's high country sheep stations, and it drinks with the same quiet toughness. Medium ruby in the glass, it opens with dark berry aromas laced with spice and a whisper of smoke. The palate turns savoury quickly - dark cherry and plum fruit sit alongside fine, supple tannins, cracked pepper and a gentle char of oak on the finish. It is approachable now, though the tannin structure suggests three to four years in the cellar would only add complexity. Pair it with roast duck in plum sauce, mushroom and truffle dishes, or venison - the wine's savoury edge was built for game.

What the winery says:
Central Otago is home to New Zealand's largest high country sheep stations. The original shepherds who worked them have long since moved on, but their spirit remains - this Pinot Noir is a tribute to those men.