Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Noir
Valli Gibbston Pinot Noir 2020
"Bright garnet hue with fresh flavours of cherry, raspberry, and sweet red apple mingled with intriguing scents of lilac, rosemary, pink peppercorn, and graphite. The wine has a heady perfume of delicate spice, florals, and ripe red fruit that delivers so intensely, making the elegant purity of the palate a wonderful segue. The glowing acidity is in perfect harmony with the supple texture creating a persistent and dynamic flow that gives the sensation of wine dancing in the glass. Often the cooler growing seasons capture the true essence of Gibbston - this vintage articulates the poise, grace, and uniqueness of Pinot Noir from this tiny subregion, when words simply fall short. Drink now until 2033" Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews
- 96/100 Points – Cameron Douglas MS
- 5 Stars – Awarded “Super Classic” Status -Michael Cooper
- 92/100 Points – Bob Campbell MW
- 91/100 Points – Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous.com
Valli Gibbston Pinot Noir 2019
"Glimmering garnet hue with captivating aromas of fresh herbs (wormwood, rosemary, and wild thyme) that “leap” out of the glass and are complemented by fig, cherry and dried rose petals. The palate commences savoury with delicious dried herb, dukkah, and mushroom flowing into bright red fruit, with a long and spicy finish. The wine has a silky texture with fine tannins and exquisite detail. This vintage has delivered a “classic” Gibbston Pinot Noir that is understated, graceful and complex with so much intrigue creating an aura of suspense. A delight to the senses at release, this wine will continue to captivate for 15 or so years." Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews
- "Top 10 Wines in the World" - International Wine Challenge (IWC), London
- Trophy "Best Sustainable Wine" - International Wine Challenge (IWC), London
- Trophy “Best NZ Red Wine” – International Wine Challenge (IWC), London
- 95/100 Points – Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous.com
- 95/100 Points - Nick Stock, JamesSuckling.com
- 98/100 – Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews
- 98/100 Points – 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 95/100 Points – Cameron Douglas, MS
- 94/100 Points – Bob Campbell MW, TheRealReview.com
- 5 Stars – Awarded “Super Classic” Status -Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine
Valli Gibbston Pinot Noir 2018
"Glimmering garnet hue with a fascinating array of aromas from mineral and floral to earthy and spicy/herbaceous. The palate commences savoury with delicious dried herb and mushroom flowing into bright red fruit, with a long and spicy finish. The noteworthy “Gibbston” silky, fine tannins coupled with intriguing layers and intricate detail deliver a refined and classy wine from a truly eccentric growing season (hottest and wettest on record!). This wine personifies everything we love about Gibbston Pinot Noir (powerful, graceful, generous and above all – memorable). This wine is drinking beautifully at release and will continue to develop for 10+ years." Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews:
- Judges Selection Award for Best New Zealand Red - TEXSOM International Wine Awards 2020
- Named in the "Fine Wines of New Zealand List 2020”
- 95/100 Points - Joe Czerwinski, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
- 96/100 Points - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 95/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 95/100 Points - Gourmet Traveller WINE Magazine
- 93/100 Points - Nick Stock, JamesSuckling.com
- 93/100 Points - Cameron Douglas MS
- 92/100 Points - Decanter World Wine Awards 2020
- 92/100 Points - Tom Cannavan
- 92/100 Points - Wine Spectator
- 19/20 Points - Joelle Thomson
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine
Valli Gibbston Pinot Noir 2017
- "Deep garnet hue with a fascinating array of aromas from mineral and floral to earthy /animal and baking spice /wild thyme. The fruit shines through on the palate with bright cherry, blackberry and mulberry complimented by a rich earthy vein. The savoury characteristics from a cool and exceptionally low cropping vintage are sensational when married with the classic Gibbston silky, fine tannins and electric acidity. Perhaps our most intriguing Pinot to date from this vineyard with vine age playing an important role in capturing a special vintage. This punchy young wine gives immediate gratification but it has all the hallmarks of a wine that is very worthy of cellaring and will show even more exciting features for many years to come."
Awards and Reviews:
- 97/100 Points – 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 95/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 95/100 Points – Top 100, Gourmet Traveller WINE Magazine
- 93/100 Points - Nick Stock, JamesSuckling.com
- 5 Stars – 19/20 – Raymond Chan
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine
Valli Gibbston Pinot Noir 2016
"Rich garnet hue with aromas of rose petals, ripe cherry, mushroom, cardamom, and cedar on the nose. The palate has layers of bright red fruit (cherry, raspberry, and a hint of cranberry); dried herb (wild thyme, rosemary); and earthiness (mushroom, loam, cedar). Highly aromatic, richly concentrated and incredibly energetic - this Pinot Noir shows the amazing multi-faceted characters of Gibbston. Plenty of intrigue in its youth, this wine will continue to unravel and give tremendous enjoyment for many years."
Awards and Reviews
- 96/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 92/100 Points - Nick Stock - JamesSuckling.com
- 97/100 Points - 5 Stars - Sam Kim - Wine Orbit
- 96/100 Points - 5 Stars - Huon Hooke
- 92/100 Points - Wine Spectator Insider
- 91/100 Points - Wine Advocate
- 19.5/20 Points - 5 Stars - Raymond Chan
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper
- 17.5/20 Points - JancisRobinson.com
- Named in the "Fine Wines of New Zealand List 2018"
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Noir 2015
"Bright garnet colour with rose petals, red cherry, doris plum and baking spice on the nose. A long and highly aromatic palate with layers of delicious red fruit, rosemary, wild thyme and an earthiness that compliments the enchanting florals. This is a worldly Pinot Noir with great length, fine tannins, vibrant acidity and noble power. Its unique character sings harmoniously of its Gibbston origins, a tiny place that produces exceptional wine that is enjoyed young and will also continue to develop for many years to come."
Awards and Reviews
- 95/100 - Jamie Goode, Wine Anorak: "Fine, expressive nose with spicy highlights alongside fresh raspberries and cherries. Very pure with lovely plum fruit. Bright, expressive and pure with nice weight."
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine
- 5 Stars, 96/100 points - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 19/20 points - Raymond Chan
- Named in the "Fine Wines of New Zealand List 2017"
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014
"A classic Pinot fragrance of violets and rose petals accentuated by bright red fruits and garrigue spices. Savoury undertones of earthy loam and cedar add to the intensity of the finish. Balanced and concentrated with fresh acidity that is framed by ripe and silky tannins, this wine offers great cellaring potential as well as youthful enjoyment."
Awards and Reviews
- 92 Points - Stephen Tanzer
- 91 Points - Wine Spectator
- 92 Points - Cameron Douglas MS
- 94 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper
- 5 Stars - Raymond Chan
- 5 Stars - Sam Kim
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Noir 2013
“Violet. Fresh, sweet, earthy loam. Broad, perfumed red berry fruit, with toffee not es. Bright juicy acidity with long earthy and red berry flavours. This wine has the hallmark fine, ripe tannins characteristic of Gibbston, and like all of the Valli 2013 Pinot Noirs, it has great cellaring potential.” Grant Taylor
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Noir 2012
“Dark violet. Deep, dark toasty notes, toffee, violets, red berry fruit, and mint; there is so much going on in the nose, with a touch of reduction adding another layer of complexity and mystery. Broad as well as long, the fruit weight and flavours are mouth filling with acid, tannin and flavour in balance. This wine is seamless on the palate. My favourite of our 2012 Pinot Noirs.” Grant Taylor
Valli Gibbston Pinot Noir 2011
"Full, deep purple-red colour with a dark heart, youthful in appearance. The nose is very refined with be autifully bright, aromatic dark red berry and cherry fruits, showing excellent ripeness, intermixed with fragrant fresh thyme herbs and hints of Asian spices. Medium-full bodied, sweet and succulently ripe, dark red berries and cherries are complexed by layers of florals and herbs forming a detailed amalgam of flavours. Oaking is very harmonious, adding spicy nuances. The tannin extraction is very fine, providing a good core and elegant palate line, which is enlivened by lively, fresh acidity. This has impressive balance, tension and energy, and the flavours flow to a very long, lingering finish featuring sweet fruit notes. This is a classically structured, fragrant and sweet-fruited Pinot Noir with noteworthy balance." - Raymond Chan, March 2013
Valli Gibbston Pinot Noir 2010
Winemaker Grant Taylor describes this vintage as “taking Gibbston to a place it’s never been before”. Beautifully perfumed aromatics: floral in nature, and reminiscent of violets, ripe red berry and cherry fruit. Concentrated core of berry fruit flavours wrapped around bright acidity and very fine, ripe tannins. This vintage is Gibbston showing power, concentration, finesse and beauty all at the same time.
Valli Gibbston Pinot Noir 2009
Winemaker Grant Taylor describes this 2009 as “quintessential Gibbston” and possibly his best Pinot Noir to date.Highly perfumed with layers of aromatics, sweet earth, and dried herb spiciness, hints of floral violet and red fruits.Concentrated with long silky texture and flavours wrapped around a bright acid core balanced by very fine, ripe tannins. Consistency through palate, length and perfect balance define this wine.
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Noir 2008
“Good example of Gibbston Pinot shows amazingly seductive perfume and elegant mouthfeel, and this beauty shows just that. The nose is ripe and fragrant displaying red/black cherry, spice, mushroom and a touch of dried herb characters. It is beautifully fruited on the palate showing silky texture and grainy tannins, flavours are seamlessly fused and shows excellent poise and balance.”
Awards and Reviews:
- Gold Medal, NZ International Wine Show
- #1 Rated NZ Pinot Noir 2008 - Gourmet Traveller Wine
- Wine Enthusiast Editor's Choice - May 2010
- Gold Medal, Air New Zealand Wine Awards
- Gold Medal - Tri-Nations Wine Challenge
- 5 Stars - Winestate
- 5 Stars - Bob Campbell MW
- 5 Stars - Sam Kim
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Noir 2007
"Bright raspberry, cherry, cola fruit, exotic spices with hint of toasty barrel in background. Silky, supple texture wrapped around a core of bright acidity waving seamlessly through the palate. A broad range of flavours adding to the wine complexity and length. Very fine ripe tannins. Life expectation: 10 years at least."
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Noir 2006
"Nose: Layered spice, cedar and violet aromatics. Palate: Long silky textured mouth feel supported by a structure of bright acidity. This is the core and backbone which is complimented by the red fruits, dried tarragon, thyme and seasoned spices. Gibbston’s length of flavour and longevity is due to this bright acidity whereas Bannockburn Pinots live more on their tannins."
Awards and Reviews:
- 92 Points - Top 2006 New Zealand Pinot Noir - Wine Spectator
- 92 Points - Wine Advocate
- 91 Points - Stephen Tanzer
- 5 Stars - Top Three 2006 Pinot Noirs - Cuisine Magazine
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2020
“Deep garnet hue with a lifted fragrance mingling fresh florals, dried herb, red & blue fruit, liquorice, earthy loam and new leather. The flavours mirror the aromas with bright fruit, a savoury edge and delicious floral notes. Immediately fresh, the silky textured palate builds in the mouth and crescendos with a memorable, lingering finish. Vibrant at release, this wine is apt for cellaring and will continue to evolve for 15+/-years.” Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews
- Best in Show, 97/100 Points - Decanter World Wine Awards
- Gold Medal, International Wine Challenge, London
- 95/100 Points – Cameron Douglas MS
- 95/100 - Bob Campbell MW
- 5 Stars – Awarded “Classic” Status - Michael Cooper
- 94/100 Points – Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous.com
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019
“ A bright garnet hue with a captivating fragrance that is both floral and savoury, accentuated by dark red fruit and flinty aromas. Full of intrigue, this elegant Pinot is from a cooler, elevated site in Bannockburn- in a relatively cool growing season resulting in a taut and energetic wine that is intricately woven with layers of red and black fruit, cedar and mushroom. The flavours are both intriguing and complex with blackberry, raspberry, lilac, cardamom, wild thyme, and a hint of iodine. The palate is fluid and silky with vibrant acidity that gives the wine length and memory. Enjoyable at release, this wine is apt for cellaring and will continue to evolve for 12+ years.” Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews
- 95/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 98/100 Points – 5 Starts – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 95/100 Points - Nick Stock, JamesSuckling.com
- 95/100 Points – Cameron Douglas, MS
- 95/100 – Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews
- 92/100 Points - Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous.com
- 5 Stars – Awarded“Classic” Status -Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine.
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2018
"This incredibly fragrant and elegant wine is from our cooler site in Bannockburn in a warmer growing season resulting in a highly energetic wine with great flow and incredible layers of red and black fruit, baking spice and earth. The aromas are both intriguing and complex: fresh berry, lilac, baking spice and wild thyme. The palate is long and bright with cherry, raspberry, beautiful florals and cardamom. Silky fine tannins compliment the vibrant acidity, giving the wine length and memory. This wine is drinking beautifully at release and will continue to do so for at least a decade." Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews
- 97/100 Points - 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 93/100 Points - Joe Czerwinski, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
- 95/100 Points - Cameron Douglas MS
- 94/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 93/100 Points - Nick Stock, JamesSuckling.com
- 93/100 Points - Wine Spectator
- 92/100 Points - Decanter World Wine Awards 2020
- 91/100 Points - Allen Meadows, Burghound.com
- 17.5/20 - Joelle Thomson
- 4.5 Stars - Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017
- "This incredibly fragrant and elegant wine is from our relatively cool site in
- Bannockburn in a cool growing season resulting in a wine with great tension
- and incredible layers of red fruit, spice and earth. The aromas are both intriguing and complex: fresh berry, wild game, gun smoke, baking spice and wild thyme. The palate is long and bright with cherry, blackcurrant, cardamom, and delicious savoury undertones. Silky fine tannins compliment the vibrant acidity, giving the wine length and memory. This wine is drinking beautifully at release and will continue to do so for at least a decade."
Awards and reviews:
- 93/100 Points - Joanna Simon MW
- 96/100 Points – 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 95/100 Points – Top 100, Gourmet Traveller WINE Magazine
- 95/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 94/100 Points - Nick Stock, JamesSuckling.com
- 94/100 Points - Jamie Goode
- 93/100 Points – Rebecca Gibb MW - Decanter
- 5 Stars – 18.5+/20 – Raymond Chan
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016
"This vintage is exceptionally fragrant with beautiful wild flowers, thyme and lilac woven through bright red fruit, cinnamon and cedar. A palate with incredible energy; red cherry and raspberry are the gateway to a round and creamy mid palate with long, silky tannins and vibrant acidity that gives the wine length and memory. This wine is drinking beautifully at release and will continue to do so for at least a decade."
Awards and Reviews
- Gold Medal - New Zealand International Wine Show
- 94/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 93/100 Points - Nick Stock - WineSuckling.com
- 96/100 Points - 5 Stars - Sam Kim - Wine Orbit
- 93/100 Points - Wine Advocate
- 19/20 Points - 5 Stars - Raymond Chan
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper
- 17/20 Points - JancisRobinson.com
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2015
"This vintage is exceptionally fragrant with beautiful wild flowers, thyme and lilac woven through bright red fruit, cinnamon and cedar. A palate with incredible energy; red cherry and raspberry are the gateway to a round and creamy mid palate with long, silky tannins and vibrant acidity that gives the wine length and memory. This wine is drinking beautifully at release and will continue to do so for at least a decade."
Awards and Reviews
- 5 Stars - Jane Skilton MW
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine
- 5 Stars, Top 10 New Zealand Pinot Noirs - Cuisine Magazine
- 5 Stars, 96/100 Points - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 18.5/20 Points - Raymond Chan
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014
"A beautiful fragrance of violets and wild thyme mingled with blackberry, dark cherry and a savoury scent of leather. The concentrated core of dark red fruit is lifted by ripe acidity and underscored by long and beautifully woven tannins. A harmonious Pinot Noir that is intriguing now but will also age gracefully."
Awards and Reviews
- Top 50 NZ Wine of the Year - Nick Stock, JamesSuckling.com
- Named in the "Fine Wine of New Zealand List 2016"
- 95 Points - Cameron Douglas MS
- 94 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 90+ Points - Stephen Tanzer
- 4.5 Stars and Named "NZ Classic" - Michael Cooper
- 5 Stars - Sam Kim
- 5 Stars - Raymond Chan
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2013
Dark violet.Ripe, complex aromatics including exotic spices, mulberry and juicy fruit. Big, rich, round mouthfeel, with a concentrated core of fruit, balanced and framed with ripe tanins. This wine is power and concentration with seamless structure.”-Grant Taylor
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2012
”Dark violet, cherry and dark plum fruit, with spice notes of vanilla and nutmeg. There is immediate impact on the palate. Concentrated ripe fruit derived texture surrounds and balances a bright acid core, with fine tannins adding structure and helping to carry the flavours. This is a Pinot Noir that will live a very long time.” -Grant Taylor
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2011
Dark, deep, purple-hued ruby-red with good depth and youthful purple hues on rim. This has a full and vigorous bouquet of vibrantly bright dark berry and black plum aromas expressed with great clarity. Subtle waves of dried stalk whole bunch and dried herb complexities unfold, with notes of liquorice, spices and aromatic oak. Fullish bodied, solid and densely packed flavours of black berry fruits are intermixed with liquorice, minerals and dark herbs, forming a rich and sweet core. The flavours are encased by very fine grained, powdery tannins and well-driven with some alcohol power. Discreet and balanced acidity underlines the palate, providing excellent tension and leads the flavours to a long, well-concentrated finish. This is a full and concentrated Pinot Noir with dark fruit and fine-grained structure." - Raymond Chan, March 2013
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2010
The most savoury aromatics of Valli’s four Single Vineyard Pinot Noirs. Dark berry fruit, exotic spice and dried herb notes with complexity from toasted barrels as well as the region’s earthy mineral notes. Dense, silky textured and with concentration not previously seen in the Waitaki. This vintage shows darker, more brooding berry fruits, yet still retains savoury mineral notes, flavour-carrying acidity and lovely gentle tannins. Often not picked until mid-May in this cooler climate, it is easy to see the benefit of a very long hang time.
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2009
“Ripe dark plum fruit, with all sorts of other notes adding complexity: roasted coffee, nutmeg, cola and much more. Very beguiling aromatically. This wine has Bannockburn’s sweet concentrated fruit, framed, and given structure by integrated ripe tannin and acid. It is all about power with restraint.”
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2008
“Rich, ripe, dense fruit. Up front power layered with complex spice from barrels and the use of whole bunches. Seriously drinkable now but expect it will age for at least 7 - 8 years.”
Awards and Reviews
- #1 Rated NZ Pinot Noir 2008 - Gourmet Traveller Wine
- Gold Medal - NZ International Wine Show
- Gold Medal - Air New Zealand Wine Awards
- Gold Medal - Tri-Nations Wine Challenge
- Wine Enthusiast Editor's Choice - May 2010
- 5 Stars - Winestate
- 5 Stars - Bob Campbell MW
- 5 Stars - Sam Kim
Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Pinot Noir 2007
"Perfumed, ripe plum fruit, mocha and toffee notes. Rich ripe dense fruit, up front layered with complex spice from barrels and use of whole bunches. Seriously drinkable now but expect it will continue to develop for at least 7-8 years."
Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir
Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir 2020
“Deep garnet hue with an array of intriguing aromas including black cherry, cassis, liquorice, mocha, cedar, forest floor and flint. Wow – there is a lot going on! The palate is equally complex with layers of dark fruit, spice and umami that are woven together by a fresh vein of acidity. The texture is rich and mouth-filling with silky, fine tannins that build in the mouth giving a long, memorable finish. Powerful yet refined, this is quintessential Bendigo Pinot with a tangy freshness that comes from grapes grown at elevation. There is a mysterious element to this vintage that is quite captivating in its youth with promise to evolve and show more character if cellared for up to 15 years” Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews
- Gold Medal, 96/100 Points – Decanter World Wine Awards
- 98/100 Points – Cameron Douglas MS
- 96/100 Points – Bob Campbell MW
- 5 Stars – Awarded “Classic” Status - Michael Cooper
- 92/100 Points – Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous.com
Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019
“Purple hue with an incredible floral fragrance and lifted fruit aromas of boysenberry and plum, followed by savoury notes of toasted almond, coffee, and cedar. Flavours of blackberry and cherry on the palate with nutmeg, mushroom, and earthy loam. The palate is voluminous and mouth-filling with silky tannins that build in the mouth giving a long, memorable finish. Powerful yet refined, this is quintessential Bendigo Pinot with a tangy freshness that comes from grapes grown at elevation. Lively and inviting in its youth, this wine will also go the distance and is worthy of cellaring for 12+ years.” Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews
- Gold Medal - Royal Easter Show Wine Awards 2021
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine
- 97/100 Points – 5 Stars – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 96/100 Points – Cameron Douglas, MS
- 96/100 – Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews
- Top New Releases in the June/July 2021 issue of Gourmet Traveller WINE by Bob Campbell MW
Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir 2018
"Deep garnet hue with bright fruit aromas of blackberry, cherry, and plum with toasted almond, coffee, and cedar. Fresh berry and cherry on the palate with nutmeg, mushroom, and earthy loam. A fresh and lively palate with fine tannins that build in the mouth with a long, vibrant finish. This vintage shows noteworthy freshness and refinement for Bendigo in a warm growing season. Bold and bright, this wine is intricately layered with a sturdy structure and incredible detail. Lively and inviting in its youth, this wine will also go the distance and is worthy of cellaring for 10+ years." Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews
- New Zealand Winegrower Trophy for Champion Pinot Noir - Royal Easter Show Wine Awards 2020
- Gold - Six Nations Wine Challenge 2020
- Top 100 Wines Of New Zealand - JamesSuckling.com
- 97/100 Points - 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 95/100 Points - John Szabo, MS
- 93/100 Points - Joe Czerwinski, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
- 94/100 Points - Nick Stock, JamesSuckling.com
- 93/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 90/100 Points - Allen Meadows, Burghound.com
- 19/20 Points - Joelle Thomson
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine
Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017
- "Deep garnet hue with bright fruit aromas of blackberry, cherry, and mulberry with toasted almond, co ffee and cedar. Fresh summer berries on the palate with nutmeg, mushroom and earthy loam. A fresh and lively palate with fine tannins that build in the mouth with a long, vibrant finish. Bendigo in a cool season shows incredible energy with a powerful core. Bold and bright, this wine is intricately layered with chiseled beauty and incredible detail. Lively and inviting in its youth, this wine will also go the distance and is well worth cellaring !"
Awards and Reviews:
- Gold Medal – Six Nations Wine Challenge 2019
- 97/100 Points – 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 95/100 Points - Nick Stock, JamesSuckling.com
- 97/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 90/100 Points - Allen Meadows, Burghound.com
- 5 Stars – 19/20 – Raymond Chan
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine
Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016
"Intense garnet hue with aromas of boysenberry, blackberry, mulberry, almond, and vanilla. Richly concentrated on the palate with creamy fine tannins that build in the mouth and are lifted by enticing acidity. Lifted fresh berry flavours with a savoury undertone and incredible vibrance that marries beautifully with its prominent frame. This is an "athletic wine" with chiselled beauty that shows incredible detail and beautiful layers. Fresh and inviting in its youth, the underlying structure will also reward cellaring."
Awards and Reviews
- 94/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 92/100 Points - Nick Stock - JamesSuckling.com
- 95/100 Points - 5 Stars - Sam Kim - Wine Orbit
- 90/100 Points - Wine Enthusiast, July 2018
- 93/100 Points - Decanter, Aug 2018
- 93/100 Points - Wine Spectator Insider
- 19/20 Points - 5 stars - Raymond Chan
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper
- 17.5/20 Points - JancisRobinson.com
Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir 2015
"Bright garnet colour with rose petals, red cherry, doris plum and baking spice on the nose. A long and highly aromatic palate with layers of delicious red fruit, rosemary, wild thyme and an earthiness that compliments the enchanting florals. This is a worldly Pinot Noir with great length, fine tannins, vibrant acidity and noble power. Its unique character sings harmoniously of its Gibbston origins, a tiny place that produces exceptional wine that is enjoyed young and will also continue to develop for many years to come."
Awards and Reviews
- 5 Stars, 95/100 points - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 19.0/100 points - Raymond Chan
Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014
"Distinctive aromas of violets, boysenberry and blackberry with subtle notes of coconut and mushrooms. Densely concentrated and rich on the palate. The precision of the acidity and power of the tannins create a harmonious, full-bodied Pinot."
Awards and Reviews
- Top 50 NZ Wines of the Year - Nick Stock - JamesSuckling.com
- 96 Points - Cameron Douglas MS
- 95 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 92 Points - Wine Spectator
- 89+ Points - Stephen Tanzer
- 5 Stars - Sam Kim
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper
- 5 Stars - Raymond Chan
Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir 2013
“Dark Violet. Christmas cake fruit and spices, with coconut and Cherry Cola notes. Dense and rich on the palate, chewy textures, layered flavours, with acid and tannins all in balance. This is a wine of not only power but also harmony.” - Grant Taylor.
Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir 2012
“Dark Violet. Ripe berry fruits: raspberries, loganberries, blueberries and cranberries. Big, rich, ripe mouth feel, dense and concentrated. The fruit power is retrained by the tannins giving the wine balance, power and elegance from this warm Central Otago site.” -GrantTaylor
Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir 2011
"Very full, bright and deep purple-red colour, near lurid, and very youthful in appearance. The bouquet is full and softly rounded with aromas of ripe dark plum fruit with some whole bunch dried stalk complexities and savoury game nuances adding layers of interest, all well entwined and integrated. Fullish bodied, broad and weighty flavours of dark berry fruits, plums, dark herbs and oak toast nuances fill the palate. This is up-front, open with accessible, sweet and rich fruitiness, the restrained acidity enhancing the rounded mouthfeel. Some alcohol warmth adds to the generosity, and the tannin extraction builds from mid-palate to provide a firm, grainy texture that leads to a dry, long finish with dark plum and dark herb notes. This is a fulsome, open and sweet, dark plum flavoured Pinot Noir with plenty of tannin structure." -Raymond Chan, March 2013
Valli Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir 2010
The Bendigo Pinot Noir is the newest addition to the Valli stable of Single Vineyard Pinot Noirs. Years ago,Grant was involved in the largest-to-date plantings at Bendigo, across 5 different sites. During this time, he identified "Chinaman's Terrace" as his favourite. When the opportunity to make wine from the Zebra Vineyard on Chinaman's Terrace presented itself there was only one answer: YES. The wines from this very warm part of Otago have been described as "big friendly beasts".They are dark, rich, lush wines capturing the rock reflected heat and ripeness of this special site.
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Pinot Noir
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Pinot Noir 2020
"A light garnet hue with wild strawberry and plum married with black olive, maple, sage, and oyster shell. The intriguing bouquet follows on the palate with garrigue spice, cardamom, damson plum, tart cherry, and mushroom. The palate has deceptive intensity with fine tannins and incredible persistence, finishing with distinctive salinity. Intense fragrance, unique savoury undertones, and electric energy = classic Waitaki Pinot Noir and this vintage is no exception. Captivating at release, this wine will continue to develop for a decade” Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews
- 96/100 Bob Campbell MW
- 96/100 Points – Cameron Douglas MS
- 93/100 Points – Decanter World Wine Awards
- 4.5 Stars – Michael Cooper
- 91/100 Points – Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous.com
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019
“A garnet hue with wild berry and plum aromas married with sage, black olive, maple, and oyster shell. The intriguing bouquet follows on the palate with garrigue spice, morello cherry, strawberry, and subtle earthiness and salinity. The palate is creamy yet focused with fine tannins and a deliciously tart finish. Waitaki Pinot Noir often walks on the wild side with intense fragrance, unique savory undertones, and electric energy - this vintage is no exception! Due to the exceptionally small yield, this wine was made in small quantities, making it an extra special treasure for the cellar” Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews
- 4.5 Stars – Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine.
- 98/100 – Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews
- 96/100 Points – Cameron Douglas, MS
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Pinot Noir 2018
"Bright garnet hue with vivid fruit aromas of wild strawberry, morello cherry, and plum married with sage, wild thyme, rose petal and a hint of cedar. The vibrant fruit, floral notes and savoury spice layer wonderfully with silky tannins and creamy texture highlighted by a fresh acidity that gives the wine tremendous energy. The warmer growing season resulted in a solid fruit set and an early start to harvest with all clones delivering brilliant, healthy clusters. Wild red fruit, intense fragrance and electric energy are the hallmarks of Waitaki Pinot Noir and this vintage is no exception, delivering a notably concentrated wine with plenty of cellaring potential." Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews
- Judges Selection Award for Best Pinot Noir - TEXSOM International Wine Awards 2020
- Gold Medal - Royal Easter Show Wine Awards 2020
- Top 100 Wines Of New Zealand - JamesSuckling.com
Named in the "Fine Wines of New Zealand List 2020”
- 94/100 Points - Joe Czerwinski, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
- 96/100 Points - 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 96/100 Points - Nick Stock, JamesSuckling.com
- 96/100 Points - Cameron Douglas MS
- 94/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 93/100 Points - John Szabo MW
- 93/100 Points - Wine Specatator
- 18.5/20 Points - Joelle Thomson
- 4.5 Stars - Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017
- "Light garnet hue with fruit aromas o f wild strawberry, sweet cherry, and plum married with sage, wild thyme and a touch o f cedar. The vibrant fruit, savoury notes and intriguing spice, layer wonder fully with the silky fine tannins and creamy texture highlighted by a fresh acidity that gives the wine tremendous energy. The cooler growing season saw a late April /early May harvest resulting in a beautifully fragrant wine with delicate fine tannins and exciting aromatics that are a true re flection o f the Waitaki. A wine that is a touch exotic, lithe and exceptionally enjoyable upon release and will bene fit from up to 8 years in the cellar. A real gem for those who love Waitaki Pinots !"
Awards and Reviews:
- Top Wines of 2019 – Peter Dean, The-Buyer.net
- 95/100 Points – 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 92/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 93/100 Points - Nick Stock, JamesSuckling.com
- 5 Stars – 18.5-/20 – Raymond Chan
- 4 Stars - Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016
"Bright garnet hue with fresh red fruit aromas of wild strawberry, sweet cherry, and raspberry with fragrant potpourri and a touch of cedar. The vibrant fruit and intriguing spice layer wonderfully with the silky fine tannins and creamy texture highlighted by an electric acidity that gives the wine tremendous energy. The warmer growing season resulted in an early harvest for the Waitaki, creating a beautifully concentrated wine with a touch more tannin than in cooler years, yet still showcasing all the classic Waitaki features. A wine that is engaging lithe, and fragrant in its youth and will definitely reward cellaring."
Awards and Reviews
- 93/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 92/100 Points - Nick Stock - JamesSuckling.com
- 94/100 Points - 5 Stars - Sam Kim - Wine Orbit
- 92/100 Points - Wine Advocate
- 19.5/20 Points - 5 Stars - Raymond Chan
- 5 Stars - Michael Cooper
- 17/20 Points - JancisRobinson.com
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Pinot Noir 2015
"Light garnet hue with sweet and savoury aromas of fresh lilac, dried plum, wild strawberry, cumin and manuka-smoked bacon. The charming florals, intriguing spice and red/dried fruit flavours layer wonderfully with the limey acidity that drives the wine and the silky fine tannins that create a beautiful round and mouth-filling texture. Forever ethereal, Waitaki Pinot is unique: bridging the energy of new world pinot noir with the form and shape of classic old world pinot noir. An intriguing wine that is lithe and fragrant in its youth with savoury notes that will continue to unfold with age."
Awards and Reviews
Supple and bright with some juicy fruit, nice sweet herby notes and a bit of greenness. Silky and drinkable with real finesse and purity - 94/100 Jamie Goode, Wine Anorak
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014
"An intriguing fragrance of lilac, rose, strawberries, cassis, and Oolong tea with a hint of smoked bacon. The powerful acid core drives the wine and gives energy to the flavours of red fruit, mulberry, and white pepper. The tannins are intricately fine and give great length to the flavours. This is an ethereal wine that will live long in the moment and also endure the test of time."
Awards and Reviews
- 93 Points - Cameron Douglas MS
- 93 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 91+ Points - Stephen Tanzer
- 90 Points - Wine Spectator
- 5 Stars - Raymond Chan
- 5 Stars - Sam Kim
- 4 1/2 Stars - Michael Cooper
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Pinot Noir 2008
“Amazingly perfumed aromatics; talc, crushed limestone, dried herb, spice and red berry fruit. Often not picked till mid May the grapes bene t from a long “hang time” before harvest producing wines with very fi ne, ripe integrated tannins and incredible length of flavour.”
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Pinot Noir 2006
"Nose: Very open and perfumed aromatics, raspberry fruit with dusty/earthy herb notes in the background.
Palate: Waitaki Pinot Noirs are not about impact or density, they are “lightness of being.” This wine has clear acidity which keeps the wine light on the palate but delivers great length, carrying raspberry fruit flavours and minerality on for what seems like forever."
Awards and Reviews
- 91 Points - Stephen Tanzer
Valli Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir
Valli Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019
"The 2018-2019 growing season returned to “classic” conditions with great diurnal range and a beautifully settled autumn (after the uncharacteristically warm 2017-2018 season). The nose is immediately earthy with red and blue fruit enveloping the graphite, mushroom, and earthy loam. There is also a lovely hint of wildflowers at the finish. The wine is quite focused with fresh fruit and persistent acidity driving the palate. The earthiness is reminiscent of previous vintages, a characteristic that we now regard as a hallmark of this Burn Cottage site. The palate is generous and dynamic with fine tannin and great length. This Pinot Noir is refreshingly taut and fresh at release and will continue to evolve for 12+ years. For Valli, it is a fascinating journey learning about this vineyard through very different growing seasons. We continue to observe some significant characteristics of this place that are evident no matter what role nature plays in each vintage. Working with Burn Cottage has helped us achieve greater perspective about our own vineyards as well as helping us hone our winemaking intuition. Above all, we are lucky to share a wonderful collaborative experience with people we admire and enjoy spending time with.” Jen Parr
Valli Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir 2018
The 2017-18 growing season was unique with the hottest summer on record for Central Otago as well as the wettest February.The rain served as welcome natural irrigationafter a very dry start to summer.We harvested grapes for this wine two weeks earlier than on average. The warmth of the season rewarded us with great fruit concentration while still retaining fresh acidity. The nose is incredibly fragrant with aromas of plum, cherry and mulberry that are interwoven with savory notes of mushroom, leather and earthy loam. The wine is highly textural and exudes the earthiness of previous vintages, a characteristic that we now regard as a hallmark of this Burn Cottage site. The palate is generous and dynamic with fine tannin and great length. This Pinot Noir is highly approachable at release but should continue to evolve for 8+ years. For Valli, it is a fascinating journey learning about this vineyard through very different growing seasons.We continue to observe some significant characteristics of this place that are evident no matter what role nature plays in a given vintage -and she played a leading role in 2018!Working with Burn Cottage has helped us achieve greater perspective about our own vineyards as well as helping us hone our winemaking intuition. Above all we are lucky to share a wonderful collaborative experience with people we both admire and enjoy spending time with.
Valli Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017
- "The cooler growing season leading up to vintage 2017 has delivered an intensely concentrated wine with a deep garnet hue and rich fruit aromas of Black Doris plum and Romance cherry that are interwoven with savoury notes of mushroom and rosemary. The palate has a memorable creamy texture with fine tannin and great length. The wine is highly textural and shows an earthiness that is similar to 2016 and may well be a hallmark of this Burn Cottage Vineyard. It is a fascinating journey learning about this site and sub-region through very different growing seasons. We are starting to understand some significant characteristics of this place that are evident no matter what role nature plays in a given vintage. Having this birds eye view of the Burn Cottage Vineyard has resulted in Valli gaining more perspective about our own vineyards as well as helping us hone our winemaking intuition and giving us a wonderful collaborative experience. This is a powerful wine that is intriguing in its youth and will continue to evolve with great interest for 10+ years."
Valli Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016
- "The 3rd vintage of our collaboration delivers a highly textural wine displaying more earthiness than previous vintages - perhaps a reflection of a warmer growing season. It has aromas of dark cherry, wild strawberry, liquorice, mushroom and earthy loam. The palate has a memorable creamy texture with fine tannin and great length. An intriguing wine in its youth that will continue to evolve with great interest for 10+ years."
Valli Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir 2015
"The 2nd vintage of our collaboration delivers an elegant and textural wine that is perhaps even more exciting than the first! Lifted red fruit aromas of cherry and wild strawberry with a hint of cassis, baking spice and earthy loam, This Pinot Noir is full of energy with a memorable creamy texture and an electric long finish. Enjoyable young and the earthiness should continue to develop with age."
Valli Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014
"This is Valli's first wine from the Burn Cottage vineyard in Lowburn. It has lifted aromas of wild strawberry, Otago cherry, rosemary, vanilla and cardamom spice with a sweet earthy note. A vibrant wine with pure red fruit flavours that dance in the glass. Well balanced with a distinctly creamy texture that lingers long on the palate."
Valli Missy Pinot Noir
Valli Missy Pinot Noir 2019
“This wonderfully fragrant and textural wine comes from a special corner of our Bannockburn vineyard in a cool growing season that was unusually low yielding. The wine has an earthy garnet hue with a highly aromatic bouquet of dried herb, lilac, Doris plum, blackberry, bay leaf and licorice. The palate has a depth of earthy flavours complimented by bright berry and cardamom. It is a unique and highly sensuous medley of fruit, earth and spice. The mouth-filling texture is a combination of silky tannins and candid acidity that suggest great ageability. The Missy Pinot Noir was made in loving memory of a special wine dog - it lingers long on the palate, seemingly resonating its purpose. This is a wine destined to invoke happy memories - enjoy in good company today, tomorrow and for 10+ years.” Jen Parr
10% of the proceeds of this wine will be donated to the Pound Paws Animal Rescue in Otago
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Chardonnay
We never intended to send this wine to media for formal review - there wasn't enough of it to warrant the exercise. However, Grant and Jen were so excited about it that they wanted to share it with their friend New Zealand Wine Writer Raymond Chan when he came to visit the winery one day back in 2017. Raymond, unbeknownst to us, published a 20/20 point review of the wine - before we'd even released it! The wine sold out before we could so much as get it on the website, and we've been struggling to keep up with the demand ever since. For this reason, it does not get sent for formal review.
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Chardonnay 2020
“The 2020 harvest was “classic” in the Waitaki in terms of the timing of harvest, the low volume and high quality of the fruit. The limestone-rich soils influence both the shape and the flow of this wine with lovely tension across the mid palate and racy acidity extending the finish. The nose has stone fruit, citrus and a lovely savoury note that is derived from the high solids fermentation. The wine is a juxtaposition of intensity and subtlety with a real limey fruit purity at the core. Made in tiny quantities, this young wine is immediately enjoyable and will continue to reward for another decade.” Jen Parr
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Chardonnay 2019
"The 2019 growing season was cool in nature, particularly at flowering, resulting in a small fruit set and a “normal” Waitaki harvest in late April / early May. The limestone-rich soils influence both the shape and the flow of this wine with its mouth-filling texture underlined by candid acidity. The nose has both tropical and citrus aromas with hints of zest and vanilla. The intense palate builds in the mouth with a silky/citrus character that is wonderfully salivating. Made in tiny quantities, this young wine is immediately enjoyable and will continue to reward for many years." Jen Parr
Valli Waitaki Chardonnay 2018
“The 2018 growing season was unusually warm and settled in the Waitaki resulting in a very early harvest. This wine is more textural and tropical than the previous vintages, yet it retains that classic “limey” acidity that we see in all our Waitaki wines. It has aromas of lemon curd, lime, pineapple, and baked biscuits with a hint of nutmeg. On the palate there is a beautiful balance of texture from fermentation on full solids with lees stirring that is complemented by great length derived from the limestone-centric soils. Made in tiny quantities, this is a young wine that unfolds in the glass and will continue to develop elegantly.”
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Chardonnay 2017
“Aromas of lemon zest, stone fruit cobbler, flint, and a hint of nutmeg. The palate is beautifully balanced with rich texture that comes from lees stirring and great length coming from the wonderful limestone-centric soils of the Waitaki. It is concentrated and finely detailed; full of character with youthful vibrancy. Chardonnay in the Waitaki is rare but worth seeking out. Made in minuscule quantities, this wine is a treasure to enjoy now but will continue to delight for years to come.”
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Chardonnay 2015
"Aromas of lemon zest, baked biscuits, flint and a hint of nutmeg reminiscent of old world Chardonnay. On the palate there is a beautiful balance of texture from the lees stirring and length from the wonderful limestone-centric soils of the Waitaki. Concentrated yet refined; full of character yet showing youthful shyness; This Chardonnay highlights the potential in Waitaki for producing world class wines. Made in tiny quantities, this wine is a treasure to enjoy now and also worthy of burying away in the treasure chest for handsome reward in years to come."
Valli “The Real McCoy” Pinot Gris Orange Wine
Valli “The Real McCoy” Pinot Gris Orange Wine 2020
Vintage 2020 is our 6th release of a “skins ferment” Pinot Gris from our Gibbston Vineyard. The combination of this versatile variety with our modern take on an ancient winemaking technique and this beautifully fragrant subregion is a winning one. We have begun to observe that “The Real McCoy” is perhaps our wine that most obviously expresses seasonality. Each vintage showcases a consistent, recognisable core that is dressed in intriguingly different vintage characters. The 2020 growing season was the coolest in a decade with a long slow ripening period which made us think a lot about how we managed tannin, ultimately deciding on 17% whole clusters, due to the small bunches and high acidity. We pressed the grapes after 25 days on skins when we felt the tannin was resolved. In 2019, we discovered that the Berrysmith clone gives darker wines with more structural tannin while the Sel Ovaille has less pigment in the skins, giving lighter coloured wines and finer tannin. This vintage was 60% Sel Ovaille resulting in a much lighter hue largely due to the cool season. The bone-dry wine went through a full malolactic fermentation and was bottled after 11 months in old Pinot Noir barrels. The wine was not fined nor filtered so natural sediment may occur. Each year we see a greater sense of place in our Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris and we continue to see our special place in the Real McCoy Orange Pinot Gris. This reinforces everything we believe about provenance and the importance of site. The Real McCoy also exemplifies our intention to embrace the beauty and honesty of seasonality
Valli “The Real McCoy” Pinot Gris Orange Wine 2019
The colour of the wine comes from the grape skins and the semi-oxidative handling. The 2019 Real McCoy has a brilliant, peachy/tangerine hue. The nose is laden with stone-fruit aromas (apricot and peach) with lychee, orange blossom and rose petals. On the palate there is almond, Turkish delight, apricot and cream soda. The fine tannin gives the wine both depth and length while the fresh acidity sings loudly of Gibbston.
Valli “The Real McCoy” Pinot Gris Orange Wine 2018
"Orange" wine is a category or genre of wine, sometimes referred to as "amber" or "skins ferment" wines. The category is defined by fermenting white grapes on skins, a technique more often used with red grapes. The spectrum of how the technique is deployed varies based on the producer or region and a range of grape varieties can be used.
In 2018 we again selected Pinot Gris from our Gibbston vineyard with the three previous vintages showing us that the combination of this variety with the ancient technique and our beautifully fragrant subregion is a winning one. The warmer growing season leading up to the 2018 vintage gave us confidence to include more whole bunches in the ferments. Previous vintages we had only one small ferment but in 2018 we had 3 small ferments which enabled us to play with up to 100% whole bunches in one ferment. The pressing decision was made on taste for each ferment and each was pressed in our Italian basket press with between 32-38 days on skins. After 12 months in old Pinot Noir barrels the wine was bottled with no fining and no filtration. Each year we see a greater sense of place in our Valli Gibbston Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris and we continue to see our special place in the Real McCoy Orange Pinot Gris. This reinforces everything we believe about provenance and the importance of site.
The colour of the wine comes from the grape skins and the semi-oxidative handling and is as unique as the wine itself. A warmer vintage, with the inclusion of more whole bunches gave us a pale peach colour that is remarkably similar to the 2017 which was a cool vintage – go figure. The nose is quite exotic with lychee, orange blossom, star anise, and cream soda. The 2018 has more savoury attributes with a delicious sesame seed / umami note along with pomegranate, lychee, and almond. The beautiful fine tannin is more pronounced than previous vintages and is complimented by the fresh acidity that sings loudly of Gibbston. The Real McCoy gives exciting opportunities for food pairing including charcuterie platters, pork roast, risotto, grilled or poached salmon, Lebanese dishes, Indian cuisine, sushi, hard cheeses and a Kiwi classic - fish and chips!"
Awards and Reviews:
- 95/100 Points - 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
Valli “The Real McCoy” Pinot Gris Orange Wine 2017
- "" Orange" wine is a category or genre of wine, sometimes referred to as "amber" or "skins ferment" wines. The category is defined by fermenting white grapes on skins, a technique more often used with red grapes. The spectrum of how the technique is deployed varies based on the producer or region and a range of grape varieties can be used. In 2017 we again selected Pinot Gris from our Gibbston vineyard with the two previous vintages showing us that the combination of this variety with the ancient technique and our beautifully fragrant subregion is a winning one. The pristine fruit in 2017 was a great incentive to experiment with more whole clusters in the fermentation (15%) and longer time on skins (40 days - double the amount of the 2016). The pressing decision was made on taste - on day 40 we found the wine was in perfect harmony. After 13 months in old Pinot Noir barrels and an additional 6 weeks in tank, the wine was bottled with no fining and no filtration. Each year we see a greater sense of place in our Valli Gibbston Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris and we continue to see our special place in the Real McCoy Orange Pinot Gris. This reinforces everything we believe about provenance and the importance of site.
- The colour of the wine comes from the grape skins and the semi-oxidative handling and is as unique as the character of the wine itself. A cooler vintage, 2017 had less colour in the skins to extract resulting in a wine with a more subtle colour of pale peach with a tangerine tinge. The nose is quite exotic with lychee, orchid, star anise, and cream soda. The palate is laden with tangerine, orange zest, pomegranate, nectarine and almond with beautiful fine tannin and fresh acidity that sings loudly of Gibbston. The Real McCoy gives exciting opportunities for food pairing including charcuterie platers, pork roast, risotto, grilled or poached salmon, Lebanese dishes, Indian cuisine, sushi, hard cheeses and a new favourite - fish and chips!"
Awards and Reviews:
- 95/100 Points - 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
Valli “The Real McCoy” Pinot Gris Orange Wine 2016
"Orange" wine is a category or genre of wine, sometimes referred to as "amber" or "skins ferment" wines. The category is defined by fermenting white grapes on skins, a technique more often used with red grapes. The spectrum of how the technique is deployed is varied based on producer or region and a range of varietals can be used. In 2016 we again selected Pinot Gris from our McCoy vineyard in Gibbston after our first release in 2015 showed us that the combination of this varietal with the ancient technique and our beautifully fragrant subregion is a winning one. The 2016 Real McCoy was made even more like we make our Pinot Noir - we increased the amount of time on skins from our first release (from 11 to 20 days) and added a small amount (5%) of whole clusters. It was bottled with no fining and no filtration and a turbidity of <15NTU! (This means the wine is naturally very clear). We've seen a strong sense of place years after year with Valli Gibbston Pinot Noir and from its inception with Valli Pinot Gris and we continue to see our special place in the Real McCoy Orange Pinot Gris. This reinforces everything we believe about provenance and the importance of site.
The colour is light apricot, much like the lingering hue of an island sunset. This colour comes from the grape skins and the semi-oxidative handling and is as unique as the character of the wine itself. It is a shade darker in 2016 which was a warmer vintage.The nose is quite exotic, leaning towards tropical with lychee, papaya, orchid and star anise. The Tropical aromas continue on the palate adding pomegranate to the mix with beautiful fine tannin and fresh acidity that sings loudly of Gibbston. The Real McCoy gives exciting opportunities for food pairing including charcuterie platers, roasts (chicken, ham, pork, turkey), risotto, grilled or poached salmon. Lebanese dishes, Indian cuisine, sushi, and hard cheeses."
Awards and Reviews:
- 95/100 Points - 5 Stars - Wine Orbit
Valli “The Real McCoy” Pinot Gris Orange Wine 2015
"The colour is pale tangerine, glimmering towards orange in bright light. After the allure of the colour, the sensory experience continues with aromas of cream soda, lychee, cantaloupe and freshly grated nutmeg. The sojourn goes on with a vibrant palate filled by a creamy middle and delicate fine tannins. The flavours tend towards tropical and floral with a fresh acidity that sings loudly of Gibbston. The journey is rewarded by the exploration of food pairing: Charcuterie, Roasts (chicken, pork, ham, turkey); Confit of duck; Duck accented with stone fruit; Pea risotto with fresh mint and lemon; Moroccan tagine (lamb, chicken, fish); Grilled or poached salmon; Hard cheeses, Apricot tart with pear sorbet."
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Gris
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Gris 2020
“Rock melon, lime zest, nashi pear, and wet stone on the nose accentuated by a subtle earthy character. The fresh palate exudes ripe citrus, crunchy pear and great drive; showing the intense focus of a cooler growing season. This is a dry and seamless wine with a richly textured midpalate that is complemented by a vibrant vein of acidity that gives the wine great length. Our Pinot Gris is great for food pairing but also delicious on its own and very age worthy” Jen Parr
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Gris 2019
“Crunchy pear, lime zest, red apple, and wet stone on the nose accentuated by a wonderful earthy character. The palate exudes pear essence, citrus and minerality; showing the intense focus of a cooler growing season. This is an elegant wine with a richly textured midpalate that is complemented by a vibrant vein of acidity that gives the wine great length. Our Pinot Gris is great for food pairing but also delicious on its own and very age worthy.”
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Gris 2018
“Pear, lime zest, almond, and mandarin on the nose accentuated by an intense mineral character. A very aromatic Pinot Gris with a distinctive creamy texture from a notably warmer growing season. The palate exudes delicious fruit flavours including many types of pear, white peach and citrus. We see riper citrus appearing in this vintage with a wonderful hint of orange. A richly textured midpalate is complimented by a vibrant vein of acidity that gives the wine great length. Our Pinot Gris is great for food pairing but also delicious on its own and very ageworthy.” Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews
- 94/100 Points - 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 93/100 Points - Cameron Douglas, MS
- 91/100 Points - John Szabo, MS
- 91/100 Points - Nick Stock - JamesSuckling.com
- 90/100 Points - Rebecca Gibb MW
- 4.5 Stars - Michael Cooper - Winestate Magazine
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Gris 2017
- "Pear, lime zest, almond and cream soda on the nose accentuated by an intense mineral character. A very aromatic Pinot Gris with fantastic cool climate freshness from a notably cool growing season with an intensity coming from the unusually small bunches. The Palate is laden with fruit flavours including many types of pear (Anjou, Williams and Nashi), white peach and citrus. A beautifully textured mid palate is complimented by a vibrant vein of acidity that runs through the wine giving it drive and length. Our Pinot Gris is great for food pairing, delicious on its own and very age worthy. This vintage in particular is one our Winemakers believe will highly reward those hide some in the cellar."
Awards and Reviews:
- 94/100 Points - 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 92/100 Points - Nick Stock - JamesSuckling.com
- 4 Stars – 18+/20 – Raymond Chan
- 4 Stars - Michael Cooper - Winestate Magazine
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Gris 2016
"Nashi pear, lime zest and white nectarine on the nose with a hint of vanilla and raw almond. An intensely aromatic Pinot Gris with fantastic cool climate freshness ans layers of fruit flavours including citrus, crunchy pear and white peaches. A vibrant vein of acidity runs throughout the palate giving the wine drive and length - it almost seems to dance in the glass. This style of Pinot Gris is great for food pairing, delicious on its own and will also reward cellaring."
Awards and Reviews
- 94 Points - 5 Stars - Wine Orbit
- 90 Points - Nick Stock - JamesSuckling.com
- 18.5/20 - 5 Stars - Raymond Chan
- 4 Stars - Michael Cooper
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Gris 2015
"Nashi pear and granny smith apple on the nose with a hint of vanilla and raw almond. The barrel component gives a creaminess to the mid-palate with layers of fruit flavours: lime cordial, pears and white peaches. A vibrant vein of acidity runs throughout the palate giving the wine drive and length - it almost seems to dance in the glass. This style of Pinot Gris is great for food pairing and will also reward cellaring."
Valli Gibbston Vineyard Pinot Gris 2014
"Freshly-baked apple pie on the nose with pineapple lifesaver fruit notes. Round and full at entry, broad and rich mid palate with layers of fruit flavours: apples, pears and white peaches. Bright, clean acid tightens up the finish, keeps the wine lively and gives it length. This style of Pinot Gris will reward cellaring.”
Valli Vendemmia Tardiva Pinot Gris
Previous Vintages
2019
Vendemmia Tardiva Pinot Gris 2019
This exotic wine is laden with fruit flavours –exemplifying the Italian term “tutti frutti” which literally means “all the fruits”.From Asian jack fruit to pear essence, apple and banana oil –the nose is intriguing and intense.The wine has a notably oily texture, yet ends fresh with flavours of ripe pear, cantaloupe, quince and honey.This rich and full-bodied wine is great on its own but also will pair well with weighty and/or salty dishes, traditional Korean or Chinese cuisine, and soft cheeses.
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Riesling
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Riesling 2020
“Freshly squeezed lime juice, lemongrass, hints of chalk and jasmine flower on the nose awaken the palate to zesty lemon, lime and spicy white pepper with a wonderful energy that sings of limestone soils. An elegant Riesling that is beautifully balanced with bright citrus, a stony freshness and salinity that gives the wine great length. Finely detailed and lower in alcohol, this wine is delicious on its own but will also pair wonderfully with pulled pork, fresh fish, seafood, summer salads and light-medium spiced Indian or asian cuisine. Remarkably drinkable at release, this fresh and fragrant wine will continue to develop and delight for 10+ years.” Jen Parr
Awards and Reviews
- 96/100 Points – Cameron Douglas MS
- 96/100 Points – Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews
- 95/100 Points – 5 Stars – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 4.5 Stars – Michael Cooper
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Riesling 2019
Freshly squeezed lime juice, Granny Smith apple with hints of chalk and jasmine flower on the nose awaken the palate to zesty lemon, lime, spicy white pepper and incredible earthiness that sings of limestone soils. The prominent acidity is beautifully balanced with bright citrus and a round mid palate with stony freshness and salinity that gives the wine great length. Finely detailed and energetic, this wine is delicious on its own but will also pair wonderfully with fresh fish, seafood, summer salads, and light-medium spiced Indian or Thai cuisine. A fragrant and earthy wine, it will continue to develop for 10 + years showing more richness and secondary characteristics.
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Riesling 2018
"Freshly squeezed lime juice with hints of pineapple and jasmine flowers on the nose awaken the palate to zesty lime, spicy white pepper and incredible earthiness that sings of limestone soils. The prominent acidity is beautifully balanced with the highly concentrated, ripe citrus palate giving the wine great length and extreme freshness. Medium bodied and energetic, this wine is delicious on its own but will also pair wonderfully with fresh fish, seafood, summer salads, and light-medium spiced Indian or Thai cuisine. A fragrant and earthy wine, it will continue to develop for 10 + years showing more richness and secondary characteristics."
Awards and Reviews:
- 95/100 Points – 5 Stars - Sam Kim, Wine Orbit
- 93/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW
- 92/100 Points – Nick Stock – JamesSuckling.com
- 5 Stars – 19/20 – Raymond Chan
- 5 Stars – Michael Cooper, Winestate Magazine
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Riesling 2017
"Freshly squeezed lime juice with hints of rock melon and jasmine flowers on the nose awaken the palate to zesty lime, spicy white pepper and incredible earthiness that sings of limestone soils. The prominent acidity is beautifully balanced with the ripe citrus giving the wine great length and extreme freshness. This is a naturally lower alcohol Riesling that is delicious as an aperitif but will also pair wonderfully with fresh fish, seafood, summer salads, and light-medium spiced Indian or Thai cuisine. A fragrant and earthy wine, it will continue to develop for 10 + years showing more richness and secondary characteristics."
Awards and Reviews
- 94 Points - 5 Stars - Wine Orbit
- 18.5+/20 - 5 Stars - Raymond Chan
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Riesling 2016
"Freshly squeezed lime juice and lemon zest with jasmine flowers on the nose awaken the palate to flavours of rich citrus, ripe apple and incredible limey acidity which ives the wine great length. This Riesling is exquisitely balanced and wonderful on its own, but it will also pair beautifully with summer salads, fresh fish, seafood, and light-medium spiced Indian or Thai cuisine. A fresh and fragrant young wine, it will continue to develop for 10 + years showing more richness and secondary characteristics."
Valli Waitaki Vineyard Riesling 2013
“Bursting with floral stone fruit notes: white peach, nectarine and honeysuckle. A little residual sweetness makes entry on the palate rich and full, but this is immediately reigned in by the region’s characteristic acidity. The palate becomes a battle for dominance between acidity and sweetness, which seems to go on forever carrying flavours with it. In true Waitaki style, this wine is all about tension and balance.”
Valli Old Vine Riesling
Old Vine Riesling 2012
- “Brilliant green-hued pale-straw colour, pale on edge. The bouquet is very tightly bound and concentrated, but elegantly proportioned, with ethereal aromatic detail, showing minerals, lime fruit and white florals. Dry to taste and still very tight in expression, the fruit extract, depth and fine texture is the feature. Concentrated and pure flavours of mineral-infused white floral fruit unfold, revealing slate and flint with delicate citrus elements. The fruit is underlined by brisk, racy, mouthwatering acidity that drives the refined, textural palate line to a pristine and very long, sustained finish with lingering nuances. This is a tightly bound, youthful and mouthwateringly dry Riesling with considerable fruit weight.” – 5 Stars, Raymond Chan, March 2013
Old Vine Riesling 2011
"Perfumed mineral notes with a white peach/nectarine fruit background. Dry, with a core of vibrant acidity balanced by ripe fruit and great length of flavour."
Old Vine Riesling 2010
“Very perfumed and aromatically expressive, ripe white peach stone fruit, some oral / honeysuckle notes in background. Great concentrated core of ripe fruit on the front palate balanced by typical Riesling acidity which bursts out of the middle of the fruit carrying flavours with it that give the wine great length...”
Valli Old Vine Riesling 2009
- "Very perfumed and aromatically expressive, ripe white peach stone fruit, some floral /honeysuckle notes in background.
- Great concentrated core of ripe fruit on front palate balanced by typical Riesling acidity which bursts out of the middle of the fruit carrying flavours with it giving the wine great length.
- These are some of the oldest wine grapevines in the South Island and consequently have the root mass to fully ripen the fruit and add complexity from the soil.
- Alexandra, having the country’s greatest diurnal temperature range also helps the grapes ripen during the hot days but retain their acidity and vibrancy during the cooler nights."
Valli Old Vine Riesling 2008
- "Very perfumed white peach stone fruit aromatics, some floral /spice notes and mineral background of dusty crushed rock .
- Concentrated core of ripe fruit balanced by typical Riesling acidity which bursts out of the middle of the fruit carrying flavours with it giving the wine great length."
Valli Waitaki Late Harvest Riesling
Valli Waitaki Late Harvest Riesling 2014
“Floral, spice, rose, orange blossom and apricot aromas. Rich, round and sweet on the palate with complex, ripe citrus flavours. Perfectly balanced acidity reigns in the residual sugar. The mid-harvest rains in the Waitaki brought with them a classic botrytis infection, most notably and desirably in the Riesling. As they say, ‘every cloud has its silver lining’: this wine is it.”
Valli Row 36 Barrel Selection Pinot Noir
Previous Vintages
2020
Valli Row 36 Barrel Selection Pinot Noir 2020
"To ensure the best fruit possible, the Valli estate vineyard in Gibbston has been planted with true North-South orientation, guaranteeing equal sun exposure and perfect uniformity of ripeness.
Consequently the vineyard is diamond-shaped, with shorter rows on the sides and the longest in the middle. This longest row is number 36, also called the 'thinking row' because when working in it there is more time for the mind to wander and come up with ideas. (It can be a very dangerous row.)
For harvest 2007 I had the help of Josselin de Gesincourt (New Zealand Sommelier of the Year, 2007). While picking row 36, Josselin decided it should be made separately, bottled in magnums and labelled 'Row 36'. However from a winemaking and wine quality point of view this was not practical.
Joss was not to be dissuaded. Wanting to get on with harvest, an agreement was reached, I would make the wines (after all I am the winemaker), but before blending he would get to taste every barrel. If his favourite barrel was the same as mine it would be bottled separately in magnums and labelled 'Row 36'.
Thinking that would be the end, and that all would be forgotten, I was in for two surprises. First, Joss turned up 10 months later to taste (and my best efforts to sabotage his memory only ended up with a seriously depleted cellar). And second, when we each revealed our favourite barrel, secretly written down after tasting over 30, we had both selected the same one!
So 'Row 36' was born. It is simply the very best single barrel from the vintage."
- Grant Taylor