Burn Cottage Moonlight Race Pinot Noir 2022
Burn Cottage · Central Otago, New Zealand
At a glance
- Producer
- Burn Cottage
- Region
- Central Otago, New Zealand
- Grape variety
- Pinot Noir
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Medium-bodied and Fruity
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $30-$40
Tasting profile
Bright red cherry and raspberry aromas with subtle spice and forest floor notes. Medium-bodied with smooth tannins and fresh acidity.
Evolution: Fruit will deepen into darker berry and plum notes, with increased earthiness and complexity developing over 4-6 years.
At peak: Complex layers of red and dark fruits, earth, and spice with silky tannins and balanced acidity providing a long finish at peak maturity.
Structure
- Acidity
- Medium-high, vibrant
- Tannins
- Medium, fine-grained
- Alcohol
- 13.5%
- Aging potential
- 10+ years under proper cellaring
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2026 to 2030
- Optimal window
- 2024 to 2030
- Current status
- Approaching early drinking window
- Current condition
- Youthful with bright fruit and moderate tannins
The wine's vibrant acidity and balanced tannin structure, typical of quality Central Otago Pinot Noir, supports a medium-term aging window. The 2022 vintage offers ripe fruit balanced with freshness, allowing drinking to begin soon with peak complexity developing 2-6 years after optimal start.
Food pairing
Pairs well with roasted duck, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, and aged cheeses due to its bright fruit and earthy complexity.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 16-18°C / 61-64°F
- Decant
- Yes (30-60 minutes) — To soften tannins and allow aromatic development
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 8/10
Use of organic composts, integrated pest management, water-efficient drip irrigation, solar energy use at winery, lightweight packaging for reduced carbon footprint.
Burn Cottage demonstrates strong commitment to sustainability via SWNZ certification which covers environmental, social and economic best practices. The winery reduces water use through precise irrigation, uses renewable energy where possible, and prioritizes low-impact packaging. While exports contribute to carbon footprint, local vineyard management and certifications reflect environmentally conscious production.