Felton Road Bannockburn Pinot Noir is a benchmark Central Otago expression, shaped by biodynamic farming, meticulous site selection and a deeply hands-off philosophy. Dark, structured and quietly powerful, it captures Bannockburn’s intensity with precision, depth and remarkable ageing potential.
Tasting Notes & Experience
A classic, perfumed floral nose opens with crystalline red fruits, dark roses, and deep violets dancing alongside hints of cherry compote. The palate is compact, concentrated, and beautifully textured. Layers of fresh raspberry, boysenberry, and black plum unfold with exceptional density. It exhibits a distinct sense of tension and structural focus rather than pure New World sweetness. Finely bound, dusty tannins provide a serious frame, perfectly balanced by a vibrant, persistent line of pure fruit and petals. Elegant and sleek, it culminates in a remarkably long, evolving finish.
Key Details
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Winery: Felton Road
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Varietal: Pinot Noir
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Region: Bannockburn, Central Otago, New Zealand
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Vintage: 2025
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Alcohol: 13.7%
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Volume: 750ml
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Other: Gluten-free; Vegan-friendly; Certified Organic; Biodynamic; Sustainable winegrowing
Craftsmanship & Story
Felton Road is one of New Zealand’s most revered wineries, internationally recognised for its uncompromising pursuit of site expression. Established in Bannockburn in the early 1990s, the estate was shaped by proprietor Nigel Greening and long-time winemaker Blair Walter, whose partnership has elevated Felton Road to global benchmark status.
Operating under a strict domaine model, Felton Road produces wines exclusively from its own estate vineyards. Certified organic and biodynamic since 2002, every aspect of viticulture is managed by hand, while the gravity-fed winery and minimal-intervention approach allow purity, balance and terroir to take centre stage.
Special Features
This Pinot Noir is a blend from Felton Road’s four Bannockburn vineyards, grown on free-draining schist and loess soils in one of New Zealand’s most extreme winegrowing climates. Indigenous yeast fermentation, gentle gravity handling, and maturation in carefully selected French oak contribute structure without overshadowing fruit purity, resulting in a wine of depth, finesse and longevity.
Recognition & Accolades
Consistently acclaimed as one of New Zealand’s finest Pinot Noirs, Felton Road Bannockburn continues to receive outstanding international recognition.
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97/100 Points - The Real Review (2025 vintage)
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96/100 Points - Cameron Douglas MS (2024 vintage)
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95/100 Points - Stephen Wong, The Real Review (2024 vintage)
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95/100 Points - Cameron Douglas MS (2023 vintage)
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95/100 Points - Stephen Wong, The Real Review (2023 vintage)
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97/100 Points - Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review (2022 vintage)
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96/100 Points - Jane Skilton MW, Jasper Morris Inside Burgundy (2022 vintage)
- 95/100 Points - Dave Brookes, Halliday Wine Companion (2022 vintage)
These accolades affirm Felton Road’s status as a global reference point for Pinot Noir outside Burgundy.
Food Pairings
This refined yet powerful Pinot Noir excels with dishes that echo its savoury depth and natural elegance. Roast duck, duck confit or herb-crusted lamb are classic partners, where the wine’s acidity and tannin structure balance richness with ease. Earth-driven vegetarian dishes such as mushroom risotto, truffle pasta or lentil-based plates are elevated by the wine’s forest-floor notes and mineral tension, while its purity and finesse make it equally compelling with game birds or softly spiced cuisine.
Perfect for Gifting or Sipping
Elegant, serious and unmistakably expressive of place, Felton Road Bannockburn Pinot Noir is a superb choice for collectors, fine-wine lovers and thoughtful gifting. Ideal for special dinners, cellaring or moments that call for something truly exceptional.
Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery
Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.