Central Otago, in New Zealand, appeared out of the mists of obscurity two decades ago and rapidly became one of the foremost cool-climate wine regions in the world. Although the area produces distinctive pinot gris, chardonnay and riesling, it is its pinot noir that has captured the attention of wine lovers.
Central Otago is the world's most southerly grape-growing region but many people are more familiar with the area's sports - bungee jumping (which began here) and heli-skiing, as well as golfing (Queenstown's Millbrook Resort) - than the vineyards. Most of Central Otago's top vineyards are planted on foothills, to maximise exposure to the sun.
Pisa Range Estate Black Poplar Block pinot noir 2007
The producer of this superb wine is Rudi Bauer of Quartz Reef fame, who consulted the lovely and unassuming Larry McKenna, arguably New Zealand's finest pinot noir maker, on the project.
The wine's dense, juicy fruit is sourced from vineyards sunning themselves at the base of the snow-crested Pisa Range mountains and features earthy complexity followed by a fine velvety texture. Its green herbal notes add interest but might not bode well for ageing. Excellent, lengthy finish.
Available for HK$285 at Northeast Wines & Spirits (tel: 2873 5733)