Product Description
The 2022 Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir is a remarkable expression of Central Otago’s bold and dynamic terroir, capturing the very essence of the region’s rugged beauty. Hailing from the prestigious Lakefront Terrace site in Bendigo, this wine showcases the perfect harmony between nature’s power and the delicate nuances of Pinot Noir. Deep ruby in colour, it presents a complex mix of dark fruits, savoury mushrooms, and hints of chocolate, with a fresh tanginess that evokes the crisp air of the vineyard’s elevated location. Smooth yet structured, it combines rich depth with an elegant finish, making it a perfect wine for both immediate enjoyment and long-term ageing. This wine is a true reflection of Bendigo’s unique conditions – playful, yet full of understated power, with the potential to evolve beautifully over the next 15 years.
The 2022 Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir has already earned acclaim from some of the most respected wine critics, who praise its complexity, balance, and ageing potential. With its distinct flavour profile and elegant structure, it’s a wine that stands out in the world of Pinot Noir – one to enjoy now and revisit for years to come.
Maker:
VALLI is the personal vocation of pioneering winemaker Grant Taylor a name that's synonymous with Otago Pinot Noir. He has been crafting wines there since 1993 when there were only 20 ha planted – today there are over 2000. Grant founded Valliin 1998 with the intention to produce single vineyard Pinot Noirs highlighting the different characteristics of Otago’s sub regions. More than 20 years later, Valli is doing just that, producing single-vineyard pinot noirs from Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Bendigo in Central Otago and the Waitaki Valley in North Otago, as well as a dry Pinot Gris from Gibbston and a Riesling from Waitaki. In 2015, established Otago winemaker Jen Parr joined Grant in the winery, where the two aim to create wines with honesty, integrity, and most of all, a sense of place. When you drink a Valli wine, you are enjoying more than just a wine: you are experiencing a place.
Vineyard | Valli Bendigo
Nestled on the sun-drenched slopes of Lakefront Terrace in Bendigo, Valli’s vineyard is one of the most exceptional sites in Central Otago. At an altitude of 310 to 350 metres, the vineyard benefits from a semi-continental climate that sees warm days and cool nights – perfect for developing the bold, concentrated flavours of Pinot Noir. The soils here, a blend of windblown loess, mineral-rich clays, and schist, are perfect for producing wines of both power and finesse. With careful vine management and attention to detail, the vineyard has become known for its bold, rich wines that capture the true essence of Bendigo’s unique terroir. The combination of these elements – the soil, climate, and careful viticulture – results in wines that are intense, complex, and beautifully balanced.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Captivating Aromatics
Think earthy Portobello mushrooms, dark chocolate, and cedar, balanced with a lively burst of blackberries, Bing cherries, and a touch of lilac flower. Multi-layered with richness and depth.
Palate
Vibrant and Substantial
Flavours of ripe blackcurrant, mulberry, and juicy plums take centre stage, while subtle spices like cinnamon and pepper add depth. The interplay between savoury and sweet is beautifully balanced. The tannins are fine and firm, giving the wine structure and complexity.
Finish
Long, Lingering, and Memorable
Dark fruit and spice notes continuing to dance on the palate. Subtle undertones of chocolate, hazelnut, and a whisper of umami add intrigue, leaving a lasting impression of the wine’s fine tannins and elegant structure.
Reviews + Accolades
Ripe, concentrated wine with cassis, blackberry, violet, dark chocolate and spicy oak underpinned with vibrant acidity. It's a wine with heft, obvious power and the ability to age gracefully. - Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review, 96 Points.
The 2022 Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir is lovely, every which way. The fruit is concentrated and supple, and it has liveliness and freshness from the acidity, but the tannins bring that forth in the mouth as well. This is a beautifully shaped wine, more curved and flowing than static or straight. A wine of substance, it is also a wine that has restraint and space. It's skillfully handled and super impressive. - Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate, 95 Points.
- Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review - 96/100 Points
- Erin Larkin, The Wine Advocate - 95/100 Points
- Cameron Douglas MS, Excellent - 94/100 Points
- Michael Cooper - 5 Stars
- New Zealand International Wine Show - Silver Medal
- Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous.com - 91/100 Points
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Pinot Noir
Country - New Zealand
Region - Central Otago
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14%
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