Pinot noir is the princely grape of red Burgundy (the real stuff, from the famous French wine region). When grown here, low-priced pinot noirs typically display light, raspberry-evoking flavours, but great pinot noir has substance, suppleness and a gorgeous spread of flavours: cherries, fruit cake, spice and plums.
As New Zealand’s pinot noir output has soared in recent decades, its average price has fallen, reflecting the arrival of a tidal wave of “entry level” (simple, drink-young) wines. But can you buy an excellent pinot noir for $30 or less?
Pinot noir can be a frustrating variety to grow because it buds early, is vulnerable to spring frosts, and clonal selection, low cropping and barrel ageing are essential to the production of fine wine. But the news is good: there are plenty of “serious” satisfying wines in the $20-$30 category.
Aces & Arrows Greg’s Central Otago Pinot Noir 2021
Priced right, this ruby-hued red is mouthfilling and supple. Still youthful, it is a moderately complex style, with generous ripe cherry, plum and spice flavours, hints of nutty oak, fresh acidity and very
