At a glance

Producer

Felton Road

Region

Central Otago, New Zealand

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$90-$120

Tasting profile

Red cherry, raspberry, with hints of forest floor and spice

Evolution: Developing more earthy, savory notes and complexity over next 5-10 years

At peak: Elegant balance between fruit, earth, and silky tannins with layered complexity

Structure

Acidity

Bright and balanced, typical of Central Otago Pinot Noir

Tannins

Fine-grained and well-integrated, moderately firm

Alcohol

13.5% - 14.0%

Aging potential

20+ years under proper cellaring conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2050

Optimal window

2023 to 2053

Current status

Approaching early maturity with excellent aging potential

Current condition

Shows vibrant fruit and developing complexity, still youthful tannins

Felton Road Block 3 is a single vineyard Pinot Noir from a top Central Otago producer. The 2018 vintage had ideal ripening conditions leading to concentrated fruit balanced by natural acidity and silky tannins. These factors support a long aging window with developing complexity over decades.

Food pairing

Duck breast with cherry sauce, mushroom risotto, grilled salmon, or aged cheddar

Serving

Serving temperature

15-17°C / 59-63°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To allow the wine to open and soften tannins, enhancing aromatic complexity

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Felton Road employs biodynamic farming, sustainable water use through natural rainfall reliance, solar-powered winery operations, and re-usable packaging materials including lightweight bottles and recycled cardboard for transport.

Felton Road is a leader in sustainability within the New Zealand wine industry, integrating biodynamic viticulture with renewable energy use and water conservation strategies. Their commitment to packaging and transport eco-efficiency effectively reduces their carbon footprint, supporting environmental stewardship.