Description
“One of Central Otago’s top producers” Bob Campbell – Master of Wine
Chicago wine importer Marquis Savage fell in love with Central Otago on what was meant to be a quick tour of the region. Falling in love meant purchasing 24 hectares in the Cromwell basin, which were subsequently planted with clones specific to soil type and in accordance with biodynamic principles. Enlisted to help in this task was Ted Lemon of Littorai, who brought with him more than three decades of practical knowledge of terroir winegrowing based on experience in Burgundy, California and Oregon.Born-and-bred Central Otago talent Claire Mullholland, formerly of Martinborough Vineyards and Amisfield, takes charge of the winemaking, realising the bright, lively, profound potential of these vineyards year in, year out. Biodynamic producer.
Originally from Central Otago, following university Claire worked in the pioneering vineyards of this region such as Rippon, Chard Farm and Gibbston Valley. Ensuing vintages abroad were focussed on building up an international picture of Pinot Noir, working in Australia, Oregon and France, including Burgundy’s Cote de Nuit at Domaine De L’Arlot and Domaine Dujac. Significant New Zealand winegrowing experience included roles as head winemaker at Martinborough Vineyard and Amisfield, before joining Burn Cottage Vineyard.
“If you crave thoroughly pure, complex, and lavish Pinot Noirs, Burn Cottage’s flagship estate bottling will put you in a blissful stupor. Aside from full-on biodynamics in the vineyard and a scrupulous cellar regimen that would cause a number of Burgundian old-timers to take copious notes, these Pinot Noirs are currently equipped with some of the most doting and consistently high praise of contemporary times”. Ian Cauble – Master Sommelier
Significant diversity of clones (114, 115, 777, 5, Abel, 10/5, 667) across 3 estate vineyards: Burn Cottage vineyard, Sauvage vineyard(on Felton Road) and Luna vineyard in Bannockburn that no doubt contribute to the remarkable complexity displayed in their fine wine.
About the 2023 vintage from the winemaker We experienced a favourable season commencing without spring frost concerns, and aside from periods of rain and high wind run in early summer, the season was warm and settled from there. The low rainfall and mild conditions providing a stable and slow even ripening period. Picking progressed steadily with a great window for each block in the settled conditions, and without early autumn frost pressure, leaves remained on the vines and trees into May.
“Moonlight Race is a combination of Pinot Noir sourced from our trio of estate vineyards: Burn Cottage Vineyard in Lowburn, and the Sauvage and Sappa Vineyards in Bannockburn. Each vineyard contributes unique characteristics to the blend, resulting in a vibrant expression of Central Otago Pinot Noir. Rich savoury notes meld with red berry and plum, spice and mineral notes. Supple with layers of interest and a wonderful seamless quality through the palate framed by juicy tannins. This wine is approachable now and can be expected cellar up to 7 years.”
Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2025 “Elegant, plush and lush, with fresh flavors of black cherry, raspberry preserves and lingonberry jam. Herbal accents of dried thyme, sage and matcha, along with whiffs of white pepper and crushed pine needle, linger on the long, expressive finish. Drink now through 2038.”
96 points, James Suckling “Bright and lifted aromas of strawberries, wild raspberries, citrus peel and cherries on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied with crunchy tannins giving notes of blackberries, mocha, lead pencil and wet bark. Refined and pure with 5% whole-cluster. Drink or hold”.
93 points, Stephen Wong, The Real Review “Gorgeously sweet violet and wild blackberry coulis on the nose. Anise spice, lavender and wild thyme adds complexity to the youthful, mid-weight flavours which gently coat the palate, supported by light but grippy tannins. Not a blockbuster but a slow burner, it gains sweetness as it softens to notes of cinnamon and sandalwood. Elegant and poised pinot noir which is approachable now but will reward cellaring with more layered complexity.”
RRP $79 Our Special Price $69.99 when you buy 6 or more of this wine.
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