This is a pretty and elegant Pinot Noir from Grant Taylor who’s seen over 60 vintages in his storied career. He know’s Pinot Noir. The 2022 is still a young wine, and despite that is perfectly drinkable now. It will continue to develop complexity and depth over the next 7-10 years. This wine is an excellent example of what a Central Otago Pinot Noir can be and it showcases Grant’s signature style and light touch.
The wine is from limestone and gravel soils and appears red to blue-fruited in the glass and on the nose. There’s an herbal earthiness that I love, notes of mushrooms, and forest floor. Proximity to the Tasman Sea brings that Kiwi marine-affected racy acidity resulting in a low-alc offering at only 12.5%. You can pair this easily with salmon prepared any way, as you might with most Pinot Noirs. We worked up a Langostino risotto, and an arugula, apple, and feta salad, a winning combination.
You can read Grant’s interview by clicking here: https://winecharacters.com/grant-taylor-valli-wine-new-zealand/