Ayrburn
Pinot Noir 2023 750ml

Vineyard Information:

The 2023 Ayrburn Pinot Noir is sourced from a prestigious single vineyard in Bendigo, perched above the shores of Lake Dunstan. While Bendigo is known as one of Central Otago’s warmest subregions, the vineyard’s elevation tempers this warmth, preserving freshness and aromatic lift alongside the region’s natural fruit intensity.

Two Pinot Noir clones - 5 and 115 - contribute layers of complexity, combining dark fruit depth with refined structure and perfume. With an average vine age of approximately 20 years, the vineyard produces fruit of concentration and balance, resulting in a characterful and complete expression of Central Otago Pinot Noir.

The fruit was hand‑harvested on 14th and 18th April 2023, capturing optimal ripeness and flavour intensity.

Winemaking:

The fruit was hand‑picked and carefully transported to the winery, where individual clonal parcels were kept separate and fermented in small open‑top fermenters. A portion of whole bunch (30%) was included in the ferments, contributing aromatic lift, spice and structural complexity.

Following fermentation, the wines were matured in French oak barriques (30% new), where they underwent natural malolactic fermentation during the warmer spring months. The parcels were then thoughtfully blended and allowed to settle gently prior to bottling the following year. This considered approach results in a Pinot Noir that balances richness with precision, and structure with finesse.

Food Match:

The wine’s vibrant fruit profile and fine, integrated tannins make it a natural partner for a range of dishes, particularly grilled lamb, duck and earthy mushroom-based plates such as wild mushroom risotto.