Product Description
The Felton Road Calvert Pinot Noir 2023 is a wine that embodies the elegance and complexity that Central Otago is known for. Sourced from the Calvert Vineyard, just 1km east of The Elms Vineyard and the winery, this wine reflects the unique terroir of the Bannockburn subregion. The vineyard’s deep silty soils with a thin layer of loess topsoil, combined with the meticulous vineyard practices, create an environment that produces Pinot Noir with finesse and mineral precision.
The 2023 vintage showcases the Calvert Vineyard’s signature balance of elegance and structure, with floral notes of rose petal and violets, complemented by subtle hints of cola, cardamom, and polished leather. A core of sweet red cherry provides the foundation for the wine, while the mineral-laden fine tannins take centre stage, leading to a sustained, memorable finish. The wine is a pure expression of its terroir, where vibrancy and mineral complexity shine.
The 2023 vintage benefited from a warm and dry December, followed by cooler night temperatures that allowed for slow and steady ripening. This ideal growing season allowed the fruit to reach optimal maturity, resulting in a wine with great focus, depth, and balance. The Calvert Pinot Noir is a sophisticated and refined expression of Central Otago Pinot Noir, with great ageing potential and a structure that speaks to both immediate enjoyment and future cellaring.
Maker
Felton Road is a trailblazer in Central Otago’s wine scene, known for producing wines that express the purity and authenticity of the land. Since its founding in 1991, the winery has adhered to a strict estate policy, sourcing all its fruit from four vineyard properties in the Bannockburn subregion. Led by winemaker Blair Walter, viticulturist Gareth King, and proprietor Nigel Greening, Felton Road has earned international acclaim for its commitment to organic and biodynamic practices. The winery uses minimal intervention in the winemaking process, ensuring that the wines truly reflect the terroir. Their focus on sustainability and respect for nature guides every step of their winemaking process, allowing the fruit to speak for itself.
Philosophy
Felton Road’s philosophy revolves around a deep respect for nature, sustainability, and organic practices. The winery follows biodynamic principles, ensuring that every decision—from vineyard management to harvest timing—is driven by a desire to express the true nature of the estate’s terroir. Through minimal intervention in the winery, including gravity flow, wild yeasts, and no fining or filtration, Felton Road allows the wines to evolve naturally, preserving the integrity of the fruit. The winery’s commitment to organic and biodynamic farming ensures the health and vitality of the land, fostering a balance between nature and cultivation that supports the expression of the unique Bannockburn terroir.
Tasting Notes
NOSE
Floral, Spice, Earth
The nose opens with delicate floral notes of rose petal and violets, layered with intriguing hints of cola, cardamom, and polished leather. The aromas evolve to reveal a complex, earthy depth that speaks to the Calvert Vineyard’s unique terroir.
PALATE
Elegant, Structured, Silky
On the palate, the wine is elegant and structured, with a seamless balance of red cherry and berry fruit. The wine expands beautifully, offering a harmonious blend of fresh acidity and silky tannins. The depth and mineral character of the wine come through, adding complexity to the fruit-forward profile.
FINISH
Long, Mineral, Refined
The finish is long and mineral, with bright red fruit and subtle spice lingering on the palate. The wine’s focus and refinement are highlighted by the lingering finish, which showcases the fine tannins and purity of the wine.
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Pinot Noir
Country - New Zealand
Region - Central Otago
Vintage - 2023
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13.5%
Other - Organic & Biodynamic
