Swift Sure Pinot Noir 2022

Swiftsure Pinot Noir 2022 is a premium, estate-grown red wine from the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago, New Zealand. Swiftsure Vineyards, a boutique winery established by Man O’ War Vineyards, focuses on producing high-quality wines that express the unique terroir of their vineyards.

The 2022 vintage benefited from a slightly warmer-than-average growing season, leading to optimal ripening conditions without weather-related pressures. The grapes were hand-picked from gentle north-facing slopes on a natural river terrace, ensuring even ripening and concentrated flavors. A blend of four Pinot Noir clones - 5, 115, 667, and 777 - was used, with 15% whole bunches incorporated into the fermenter. A small batch of all clones combined was also fermented as a whole bunch component, resulting in a total of 20% whole cluster fermentation. The wine underwent a wild fermentation at ambient temperatures, followed by 30 days of maceration before pressing. It was then aged in 500-litre French oak puncheons, with natural malolactic fermentation occurring in spring, blending in late autumn, and bottling in winter 2023.

In the glass, Swiftsure Pinot Noir 2022 presents a deep ruby hue. The nose is aromatic, offering scents of red rose, violet, cherry, red-fleshed plum, wild thyme, and raspberry. The palate is medium-bodied with a smooth texture, showcasing flavors of ripe dark-skinned cherry, baked raspberry, black currant, and savory spices. The wine is well-structured with balanced acidity and fine tannins, leading to a complex and lengthy finish.

This Pinot Noir pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled salmon, roasted poultry, mushroom risotto, charcuterie boards, and soft cheeses. Its complexity and aging potential make it suitable for both immediate enjoyment and cellaring.

Tasting Profile

Food Pairings:

Cheese

Game

Poultry