Felton Road, Calvert Pinot Noir, Central Otago, New Zealand, 2020
Overview of the Wine
Felton Road Wines Ltd, in Bannockburn, Central Otago, New Zealand, has planted some of the world's southernmost vineyards. The expression, "growing on the edge," has real meaning in Central Otago, with the lowest rainfall and lowest temperatures of any agricultural region in New Zealand.
Central Otago is located on the southern end of New Zealand's South Island (latitude 45º south) and shares with Oregon (45º north) similar viticultural challenges: late frosts in Spring, early frost in Autumn, a growing season that may be curtailed overnight. Yet the climates of both are surprisingly similar to Burgundy's Côte d'Or: hot in summer, cold in winter. Central Otago is New Zealand's only wine region with a continental - rather than maritime - climate, which results in greater diurnal and seasonal shifts in temperature.
Grape / Blend
100% Pinot Noir
Origin
Central Otago, New Zealand
Winemaker's Tasting Notes
Immediately bursting with characteristic Calvert florals that are supported by dark cherry, plum and allspice. Violets flow endlessly on a silk laden mid-palate that intensifies and firms in the normal Calvert manner. Refinement; precision; florality; deeply reflective: descriptors that commonly define this great site are respectfully amplified in this cooler and slower ripening vintage.
94 Points - Vinous
The 2020 Pinot Noir Calvert may initially seem smooth and refined, but there's no escaping its sense of power; it packs a punch with its concentrated core and structured tannic frame. While you'll find cherry-like fruit and a floral lift, there's a distinctly savory edge to this vintage, which displays Worcestershire sauce, spice and fruitcake alongside herbal notes. It achieves a wonderful balance between the core of ripe fruit and the powerful structure. A Calvert has the brawn to age and will benefit from more time in bottle.
Product size: 750ml
