Selected for the Fine Wines of New Zealand List
Peregrine wines are named in honour of New Zealand’s endemic falcon (Karearea in Maori), a bird that combines both power and finesse, the essence of Peregrine’s range of wines. None more so than this impressive Pinot Noir which has gone through somewhat of a resurgence in recent vintages. This can be attributed to amongst other things, vine age, a switch to organic principles and clearly a greater understanding of site and winemaking, with judicious use of oak and considered whole bunch elements attributing to a Central Otago Pinot Noir of the highest quality.
Winery notes (2021 Vintage)
"Pretty, floral, and perfumed, this wine displays appealing aromas of ripe red and dark cherry with lovely underlying oak spice. Wonderful depth of fruit refined with a lovely acidity and finesse, this beautiful Pinot Noir will cellar well into the future. Purity, elegance combine with texture, concentration and length. A true reflection of the Central Otago sub regions that contribute to our Pinot Noir.
The 2021 season began with a warm, dry spring in Central Otago. This combined with a cooler growing season resulted in smaller bunches and berries, with lovely purity and intensity of flavour. Warm, dry days in autumn provided lovely ripening and favourable harvest conditions.
Hand harvested from Bendigo (50%) and Pisa (50%) sub regions of Central Otago. A combination of whole bunch and destemmed fruit fermented and hand plunged in open top fermenters, and matured for 10 months in French oak barrels."
Rated Outstanding & 96/100 Cameron Douglas MS, December 2023 (2021 Vintage)
"A wine of focus and quality, concentration and length. Aromas and flavours of dark berry fruits from baked cherry skin to boysenberry, plum and and dried raspberry. Layers of oak spice and stone-mineral deliver complexity and a sense of place, the savoury nuances speak of Central Otago’s rugged hillsides and seam of wild-thyme. Firm tannins and acid-line set a strong foundation for ageing with mouthfeel and structure, all easily soaked up by the core fruit intensity. Lengthy, complex and new. Best drinking from 2026 through 2036."
Reviews for the 2020 vintage below…
4 ½ Stars & Top 10 Cuisine Pinot Noir Tasting, April 2023 (2020 Vintage)
"Youthful and deep in colour this is a big pinot with a commanding presence. The complex nose boasts aromas of dark cherries, dried herbs and spices working in perfect harmony. The nose is reflected through the palate with bold savoury tannins and a rich, lengthy finish."