At a glance

Producer

Burn Cottage Vineyard

Region

Central Otago, New Zealand

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

USD $35-$50

Tasting profile

Vivid red and dark fruits (cherry, raspberry, black plum), hints of spice, florals, fresh earth and subtle oak.

Evolution: With 2-5 years, expect developing complexity—sous bois, mushroom, more pronounced spice and savory notes.

At peak: Silky texture, intricate balance of fruit and earthy notes, integrated tannin and acidity, elegant tertiary aromatics.

Structure

Acidity

Bright, lively acidity that supports aging potential.

Tannins

Silky, moderate tannin structure typical of Central Otago Pinot Noir.

Alcohol

Moderate (typically 13-14% ABV for this bottling).

Aging potential

5-8 years; can evolve gracefully up to a decade in optimal conditions.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2030

Optimal window

2025 to 2032

Current status

Young and vibrant; approachable now but will benefit from short-term aging.

Current condition

Fresh fruit, energetic acidity, moderate structure—primary aromas and flavors dominate.

The 2023 vintage exhibits classic Central Otago vibrancy, purity of fruit, and nuanced structure—making it accessible in its youth but best enjoyed after 2-5 years in bottle when secondary flavors start to emerge. Peak drinking aligns with aromatic maturation and palate integration.

Food pairing

Roast duck, game birds, lamb with herbs, mushroom risotto, grilled salmon, earthy vegetarian dishes.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Holistic biodynamic vineyard management, cover cropping, composting, low-impact viticulture, non-irrigated blocks where possible, significant native revegetation, solar energy for operations, lightweight glass, recyclable cardboard packaging.

Burn Cottage is internationally recognized for its stringent adherence to biodynamic principles, with Demeter and BioGro organic certification. The estate prioritizes biodiversity, natural cycles, minimal intervention, and ecological restoration. Their environmental stewardship includes water conservation, renewable energy integration, and eco-conscious packaging. While international export adds to the wine’s carbon footprint, the vineyard offsets this through robust regenerative agriculture and local infrastructure. Overall, the Moonlight Race ranks among the most sustainably produced New Zealand Pinot Noirs available globally.