2022 Valli Waitaki Pinot Noir (375ml)

Waitaki - Exceptional Half-Bottle Pinot Noir

Critical Recognition

95 Points - James Halliday Wine Companion

Outstanding Regional Expression - Exceptional wine showcasing the distinctive character of Waitaki Valley from legendary producer Valli

"Like the finest Burgundian Pinot Noirs, this exceptional Waitaki wine delivers elegance, complexity and remarkable depth from one of New Zealand's most exciting emerging regions - now in perfect half-bottle format."

The 2022 Valli Waitaki Pinot Noir represents an outstanding expression of regional Pinot Noir from New Zealand's emerging Waitaki Valley. This elegant wine showcases the refined character and complexity that has made Valli one of New Zealand's most respected Pinot Noir producers, creating a wine that's both distinctive and delicious. Sourced from the Waitaki Valley in North Otago, this wine showcases how the right region and winemaking mastery can elevate Pinot Noir to extraordinary heights. The 375ml half-bottle format is perfect for intimate occasions or exploring this exceptional wine.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Bright ruby-red with garnet hues and excellent clarity

Aroma: Captivating bouquet of red cherry, wild strawberry, and raspberry, enhanced by notes of rose petal, dried herbs, and subtle spice. The cool-climate character contributes elegance and complexity with layers of forest floor, earthy minerality, and fine oak integration

Palate: Medium-bodied with excellent balance and complexity. Flavors of red fruit, cherry, and raspberry blend harmoniously with spice, cedar, and silky tannins that provide structure and finesse

Finish: Long and satisfying with persistent red fruit, savoury complexity, and the kind of elegant character that makes Waitaki Valley Pinot Noir so compelling

Wine Details

Vintage: 2022
Variety: Pinot Noir
Region: Waitaki Valley, North Otago, New Zealand
Producer: Valli
Format: 375ml Half-Bottle
Style: Regional Pinot Noir
Serving Temperature: 14-16°C
Cellaring: Drink now or cellar for 8-12 years

Food Pairings

• Roast duck breast with cherry glaze
• Grilled quail with wild mushrooms
• Seared salmon or tuna with soy and ginger
• Truffle risotto or wild mushroom pasta
• Soft-rind cheeses such as Brie or Taleggio
• Perfect for intimate dinners or wine exploration

Producer Background

Valli has established itself as one of New Zealand's most respected Pinot Noir producers, dedicated to crafting exceptional single-vineyard and regional wines from Central Otago and beyond. Their approach to winemaking combines respect for Burgundian techniques with a commitment to expressing the unique character of individual regions, creating wines that consistently rank among New Zealand's finest.

Regional Character

The Waitaki Valley in North Otago is one of New Zealand's most exciting emerging wine regions. With limestone soils, high elevation, and a cool continental climate, the region provides exceptional terroir for Pinot Noir production. The unique microclimate and ancient soils allow Pinot Noir to develop elegant fruit character while retaining natural acidity, contributing to wines of outstanding character and exceptional quality.

Value & Investment

At $50, this 95-point half-bottle Pinot Noir represents excellent value for a distinctive wine from New Zealand's emerging Waitaki Valley. With an outstanding score from James Halliday Wine Companion and over 2 years of maturation, this wine offers both immediate drinking pleasure and the perfect format for exploring exceptional Pinot Noir without committing to a full bottle.

Experience Waitaki Valley excellence - a 95-point half-bottle Pinot Noir that delivers elegance, complexity and remarkable depth from this exciting emerging region!