Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir

Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir is one of New Zealand's most celebrated Pinot Noirs, capturing the remarkable beauty and purity of Lake Wānaka in every bottle. Produced from some of Central Otago's earliest vineyard plantings, this biodynamic wine reflects an unwavering commitment to terroir, minimal intervention and authentic site expression. Elegant yet powerful, it is a benchmark New Zealand Pinot Noir sought after by collectors, fine wine enthusiasts and those seeking one of the country's finest red wines.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Deeply expressive and beautifully poised, Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir opens with captivating aromas of dark bramble fruit, black cherry and crushed violets, layered with wild thyme, forest floor and earthy spice. The palate is muscular yet refined, revealing concentrated black cherry, forest berries and savoury complexity framed by ultra-fine chalky tannins. A vibrant mineral acidity, born from the estate's ancient schist soils, provides remarkable freshness and precision before leading into an exceptionally long, elegant and lingering finish.

Key Details

• Winery: Rippon
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Region: Central Otago, New Zealand
• Vintage: 2023
• ABV: 14%
• Volume: 750ml
• Other: Gluten-free, Vegan-friendly, Sustainable winegrowing, Organic, Biodynamic

Craftsmanship & Story

Rippon is one of Central Otago's pioneering wine estates, with the Mills family stewarding this extraordinary property overlooking Lake Wānaka since 1912. Rolfe and Lois Mills planted the estate's first vines in 1975, recognising the exceptional potential of the site long before the region became internationally renowned. Today, second-generation winemaker Nick Mills continues the family's philosophy of producing wines that faithfully express their remarkable landscape. Every bottle reflects decades of experience, careful stewardship and a profound respect for nature.

Special Features

Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir is sourced entirely from mature, ungrafted vines planted on their own roots across the estate's spectacular north-facing escarpment overlooking Lake Wānaka. The vineyard's schist-rich glacial soils, combined with the moderating influence of the lake, create a distinctive mineral character rarely found elsewhere. Certified organic and biodynamic, the vineyard is completely dry-farmed without irrigation. Fermentation relies exclusively on indigenous yeasts with no temperature manipulation, followed by spontaneous malolactic fermentation, extended maturation in French oak and bottling without fining or filtration. The result is a Pinot Noir of exceptional purity, texture and remarkable ageing potential.

Recognition & Accolades

Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir has earned widespread acclaim from leading international critics, consistently recognised as one of New Zealand's finest Pinot Noirs.

• 95/100 Points – Falstaff (2023 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – Stephen Wong MW, The Real Review (2023 vintage)
• 97/100 Points – James Suckling (2022 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – Erin Larkin, Robert Parker Wine Advocate (2022 vintage)
• 97/100 Points – James Suckling (2021 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – Erin Larkin, Robert Parker Wine Advocate (2021 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – Stephen Wong MW, The Real Review (2021 vintage)

These accolades reinforce Rippon's standing as one of New Zealand's most respected producers and a benchmark for world-class Central Otago Pinot Noir.

Food Pairings

This beautifully structured Pinot Noir pairs magnificently with roasted Canterbury duck breast served alongside a rich plum reduction, where its vibrant acidity balances the meat's richness while enhancing its dark fruit character. Slow-braised Central Otago venison or herb-crusted lamb loin also make exceptional partners, allowing the wine's silky tannins and savoury complexity to shine.

For an elegant vegetarian pairing, serve alongside wild mushroom risotto finished with black truffle and aged Parmesan. The earthy flavours draw out the wine's forest floor nuances and distinctive schist minerality, creating a wonderfully harmonious and memorable dining experience.

Perfect for Gifting or Cellaring

Highly sought after by collectors and Pinot Noir enthusiasts, Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir is an exceptional gift for milestone occasions and fine wine lovers. Its biodynamic pedigree, remarkable vineyard heritage and proven ageing potential make it equally rewarding to enjoy today or cellar for many years to come.

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.