Name: Innocent Bystander Pinot Noir Central Otago 2023 750ml
Brand: Innocent Bystander
SKU: 1016214
Price: 24.94 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 88.3 (3 reviews)

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Winery

Innocent Bystander

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Varietal

Pinot Noir

Regularly described as being the grape varietal responsible for producing the world's most romantic wines, Pinot Noir has long been associated with elegance and a broad range of flavors The name means 'black pine' in French, and this is due to the fact that the fruit of this particular varietal is especially dark in color, and hangs in a conical shape, like that of a pine cone. Despite being grown today in almost every wine producing country, Pinot Noir is a notoriously difficult grape variety to cultivate. This is because it is especially susceptible to various forms of mold and mildew, and thrives best in steady, cooler climates. However, the quality of the fruit has ensured that wineries and vintners have persevered with the varietal, and new technologies and methods have overcome many of the problems it presents. Alongside this, the wide popularity and enthusiasm for this grape has ensured it will remain a firm favorite amongst wine drinkers for many years to come.

Country

New Zealand

As with nearby Australia, New Zealand has over the past century proven itself to be a superb location for producing high quality wines in vast amounts, with much of the cooler regions of both islands being used primarily for vine cultivation. New Zealand wineries are notable for their enthusiasm in regards to experimentation, and for utilizing modern technologies and methods to make the most of the imported grape varietals which flourish in the rich, fertile soils and oceanic climate. In recent years, it has been the New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc wines which have gained the most attention, as a result of their smoky character and ability to carry the mineral rich nature of the terroir they grow in. Changing consumer interests have brought about a considerable rise in the production of organic and sustainable wines in New Zealand, of which again, the Sauvignon Blanc varietals are leading the way in regards to excellence, flavor and overall character.

Region

Central Otago

Being in the south of New Zealand's lower island, there is no question of the fact that Central Otago is the most southerly wine region on earth. However, despite its rather extreme positioning, the past century or so has proven that Central Otago is in fact something of an idyllic area for viticulture, being shielded by the harsh, oceanic climate by a mountain range which results in a favorable micro climate. Indeed, the region enjoys long, hot and dry summers followed by pleasant autumns, perfect for ripening grapes. This did not go unnoticed by early French settlers in the 19th century, and before long, vineyards were being planted on the sides of vast glacial valleys, and even the earliest results were promising. Today, Central Otago produces an impressive quantity of wine, mostly made with the ever-present Pinot Noir grape varietal, and exports it all over the world.

JS 92pts

James Suckling

Vibrant aromas of dark cherries, cassia bark, pencil shavings and blueberries. The palate is medium-bodied with finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, giving flavors of plums, river stones and cedar. A well-balanced and pure expression of pinot noir. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

WE 87pts

Wine Enthusiast

Sweet dried fruit and potpourri-dish aromas give this Otago Pinot hotel hand soap vibes that may be divisive. Tannins are quite firm—even a a bit austere—but the red fruit isn't totally lost in the shuffle.

WS 86pts

Wine Spectator

Tangy blood orange, tart cherry and raspberry flavors are juicy and bright, with notes of dried herbs and fresh earth, plus firming tannins on the finish. Drink now. 2,500 cases imported.

Winery Notes

Perfumed aromatics lead into a characteristic plummy, juicy density that typifies this area. The rich tannin structure melts into a velvety mouthfeel.

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Innocent Bystander Pinot Noir Central Otago 2023 750ml