A thoughtfully crafted Pinot Noir from Burn Cottage, the Central Otago estate founded by Alistair and Jackie Cameron and now led by their daughter Anna Cameron Smith and winemaker Phil McLaughlin. Situated in a cool, continental climate with high diurnal range, Burn Cottage’s vineyards on ancient schist soils produce fruit with vibrant purity and fine structural detail.

The 2022 Moonlight Race reflects this sense of place with layered aromas of red cherry, wild raspberry, and subtle spice, complemented by undercurrents of forest floor and gentle earthiness. On the palate it delivers silky, refined tannins, bright acidity and a poised frame, with a depth of fruit that unfolds gracefully through a long, mineral tinged finish. This wine demonstrates Burn Cottage’s focus on precision, site expression and a balanced, elegant style of Central Otago Pinot Noir.

The 2022 Moonlight Race Pinot Noir is supple and spicy, with pink peppercorn, cherry blossom, red apple skins, a hint of blond tobacco and white pepper. The wine is light in the glass (but vibrant) and the tannins suit it—they are totally fresh and fine—finely milled and like poudre. Superb, silky, totally satisfying and enlivening. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Here are some technical numbers for you. Vineyard percentage is 56% Burn Cottage Vineyard, 22% from the Sauvage Vineyard and 22% from Luna Vineyard. Seven percent whole bunch was in the ferment with 17 days on skins and oak included 22% new French oak. The wine’s pH is 3.73, with a total acidity of five grams per liter. 94 Pts, Drink 2023- 2032 - Erin Larkin, The Wine Advocate