Product Description:
Biodynamic Pinot with old-world soul and New Zealand precision.
The 2024 La Cote Pinot Noir is Millton Vineyard’s expressive take on Gisborne-grown Pinot Noir, dry-farmed and biodynamically cultivated since 1989. Drawing on a mix of modern clones and classic Burgundian inspiration, this wine shuns overworked fruit and heavy oak in favour of delicacy, savoury nuance and unmistakable terroir. It’s unfined, unfiltered, and entirely guided by nature—Millton’s signature approach since they became New Zealand’s first certified organic and biodynamic estate in 1984.
Perfumed with dark cherry, juniper, fennel and native manuka flower, the nose sets the tone for a layered and quietly complex palate. There's brightness and crunch, but also deep herbal savouriness, with firm tannins and a lifted mineral finish. It’s light in body but long in character—a wine built for the table, not the tasting bench.
Serve slightly chilled with grilled lamb, wild mushrooms or anything earthy and aromatic. Drink now or cellar for up to five years.
Maker
Millton Vineyards & Winery, founded by James and Annie Millton in 1984, was New Zealand’s first certified organic and biodynamic wine estate. Located on the banks of the Te Arai River near Manutuke, Gisborne, the winery draws on the rich history of viticulture in the region, dating back to 1871 when the first settlers planted vines. The Milltons, with their international experience in renowned wine regions such as Champagne, Bordeaux, and Rheinhessen, brought their expertise and vision back to Gisborne to create wines that truly reflect the region’s terroir.
Millton’s focus on organic and biodynamic principles has earned them international acclaim for their distinctive, terroir-driven wines. Over the years, their dedication to quality and sustainability has led to a series of award-winning releases, with their Chenin Blanc particularly standing out as a New World classic. The Milltons are proud members of prestigious wine groups such as "La Renaissance des Appellations" and "The Family of Twelve," and their wines are featured in fine dining establishments around the world.
Tasting Notes
NOSE
– Perfumed and wild
Dark cherry, raspberry bush, juniper and fennel with floral lift from manuka.
PALATE
– Savoury and bright
Light-bodied and mineral with redcurrant, shiitake, herbs and firm tannins.
FINISH
– Earthy and lifted
Lively acidity and a clean mineral edge carry the wine to a subtle, long finish.
Reviews & Accolades
Red cherry, rose hip tea, shiitake mushrooms, truffle… earthy, herbal notes and wonderful texture. – Mike Bennie, The Wine Front, 95 Points
So pretty and perfumed with aromas of wild strawberries… redcurrants, dried herbs, pencil and spices. Delicious. – James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, 93 Points
Finer Details:
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Pinot Noir
Country - New Zealand
Region - Gisborne
Vintage - 2024
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13%
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