At a glance

Producer

Felton Road

Region

Central Otago, New Zealand

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

NZD $80-$120 (expected release price)

Tasting profile

Primary notes of dark cherry, wild berries, and violets; hints of spice and subtle oak. Exhibits mineral drive and youthful freshness.

Evolution: Primary fruit will integrate with tertiary notes of forest floor, earth, and savory spice. Texture becomes silkier, with greater aromatic nuance.

At peak: Harmonious balance of fruit, acidity, and minerality with evolved earthy complexity; signature Central Otago perfume and finesse.

Structure

Acidity

Fresh, vibrant, medium-high

Tannins

Fine, silky, medium

Alcohol

Typically 13.5% ABV

Aging potential

10-12 years in proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2034

Optimal window

2026 to 2036

Current status

Barrel sample/pre-release; not yet bottled

Current condition

Youthful, primary fruit, still maturing; not yet commercially available

Felton Road single-vineyard wines such as Cornish Point are crafted for both early accessibility and mid-term aging. Pinot Noir’s delicate structure will evolve gracefully, peaking as fruit integrates with savoriness and mineral notes around 6-10 years after harvest. Drinking before 2026 will showcase bright fruit, while cellaring unlocks its depth.

Food pairing

Duck breast, roast lamb, wild mushroom risotto, char siu pork, or grilled salmon. Also pairs well with soy-glazed eggplant or truffle cheese.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 10/10

Felton Road employs 100% organic and biodynamic viticulture across all estate vineyards; sheep for natural weed control; cover cropping; gravity flow winery; ecological restoration projects; minimal intervention winemaking; recycled packaging, light glass bottles.

Felton Road is globally renowned for its pioneering sustainability leadership. They have long held organic and biodynamic accreditations, utilize on-site ecological stewardship, emphasize closed-loop agriculture, and continually reduce their environmental impact through energy efficiency, water conservation, light packaging, and ethical labor. Their commitment, transparency, and certifications earn them a top global sustainability score.