Yoshiaki and Kyoko Sato have built an extraordinary reputation for their thoughtful, minimal-intervention wines in Central Otago. Originally from Japan, the couple trained in Burgundy before moving to New Zealand, where they began making wine in 2009. Their approach combines a deep respect for traditional European winemaking with an almost philosophical commitment to allowing nature and the vineyard to speak for themselves.

Alongside the wines from their own estate, La Ferme de Sato, they continue to work with carefully selected vineyards across Central Otago, building close relationships with growers who share their dedication to responsible farming.

Their Bannockburn Pinot Noir comes from one of Central Otago's most celebrated subregions, known for its dramatic landscape, continental climate and remarkable ability to produce Pinot Noir with both concentration and finesse.

The 2023 vintage is wonderfully expressive and beautifully layered, with ripe red cherries, wild strawberries and delicate floral notes giving way to earthy undertones, dried herbs, green tea and a subtle mushroom-like savouriness. Fine, silky tannins and beautifully integrated acidity bring freshness and precision, while the finish is long, elegant and quietly complex.

A Pinot Noir that favours purity and character over power. Fragrant, savoury and wonderfully refined, with the kind of effortless drinkability that makes the Satos' wines so special.

95 Points | James Suckling

Praised for its savoury complexity, earthy nuances, green tea and mushroom characters, alongside beautifully integrated fruit and fine tannins. A sophisticated, layered Pinot Noir that captures the elegance and distinctive character of Bannockburn.