This is from two parcels, the first located in the Lowburn sub-region on a gentle, north facing slope with 30% own-rooted vines and a mix of clones. Blessed with some of the oldest vines in Central Otago, the vineyard was founded by Roger and Jean Gibson, and today is owned and managed by Pyramid Valley. Soils are predominately loess over deep silts that have developed lime deposits. The site has been in organic conversion since Pyramid Valley took the reins in 2018, and was Biogro-certified earlier in 2022. The second parcel is in the Bannockburn subregion. The fruit was hand-picked and naturally fermented in open-top fermenters with 15% whole bunches and an extremely gentle infusion regime. It was aged in 25% new French barrels for 12 months before settling and aging in tank for a further six months.

Alluringly fresh out the glass, you get lovely scents of dark cherry, exotic spice and an earthy tinge. It’s silky and vibrant fleshy, with a fine-boned structure offering plenty of immediate drinking pleasure. Wrapping around a core of deep red fruit, the tannins are perfectly formed and it closes with powerful length, elegance and freshness.