Dry River Pinot Noir

From Dry River’s heritage vineyards on Martinborough’s arid, free-draining terraces, this Pinot Noir marries savoury intrigue with layered elegance. A singular expression of place and craft, it offers silken structure, refined complexity, and gift-worthy poise — a memorable bottle for the discerning palate.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Herbal whispers and sanguine hints unfurl to brown sugar warmth and bran. With air, cedar-like Canadian maple, tobacco leaf, walnut oil and sage add depth, while spice-box detail circles a clay-textured core. A breath of dehydrated citrus zest and blossom lifts a long, elegant finish, carried by silky tannins and bright acidity.

Key Details

• Winery: Dry River
• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Region: Martinborough, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2023
• ABV: 13%
• Volume: 750ml
• Other: Estate-grown (Dry River Estate, Craighall & Lovat); free-draining gravel soils; dry farming & meticulous canopy management; historic Rotator tank use; limited production (approx. 475 cases)

Craftsmanship & Story

Founded in 1979 by Dr Neil and Dawn McCallum, Dry River helped pioneer Martinborough’s terrace vineyards, where low rainfall and stony, free-draining soils shape characterful, age-worthy wines. Today, a hands-on team pursues precision through dry farming, selective crop thinning and regenerative practices, capturing an authentic, terroir-driven expression each vintage.

Special Features

A three-site composition — Craighall lending linearity and acidity, Lovat bringing accentuated fruit, and the original Dry River Estate delivering depth and gravitas. Subtle oak integration and thoughtful aldehyde management nod to classic ’90s methods, balancing vintage nuance and polishing texture. Understated, elegant packaging reflects the estate’s quiet confidence.

Recognition & Accolades

Dry River Pinot Noir continues to earn acclaim from leading critics and publications:

• 95+/100 Points – Robert Parker (Erin Larkin), 2023 vintage
• Gold & 95/100 Points – Stephen Wong MW, The Real Review, 2023 vintage
• 96.5/100 Points – The Real Review, 2022 vintage
• 96.5/100 Points – The Real Review, 2021 vintage
• 98/100 Points – Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review, 2020 vintage
• 96/100 Points – Douglas Cameron MS, 2020 vintage
• 96/100 Points – James Suckling, 2020 vintage

These accolades affirm its benchmark status among New Zealand’s most refined and cellar-worthy Pinot Noirs.

Food Pairing

This is the perfect Pinot Noir for slow-roasted duck with blackberry jus, a classic match where the wine’s savoury depth enhances rich game flavours. Its silky tannins and layered spice also pair beautifully with venison loin and truffle-brushed chicken, while wild mushroom risotto or porcini pappardelle mirror its earthy complexity. For seafood lovers, Pinot Noir with salmon is a timeless choice — seared salmon with herb beurre noisette or smoked salmon entrées highlight its vibrant acidity. Aged sheep’s cheese and walnut-crusted pork loin further showcase its versatility, making this a food-friendly fine wine for any occasion.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

A sophisticated choice for collectors and connoisseurs alike — impressive at dinner, thoughtful as a milestone gift, and poised for graceful evolution in the cellar.

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.