Maude Pinot Noir 2024

Maude Wines was founded in 1994 with the planting of the Mount Maude Vineyard on the Maungawera Valley slopes above Lake Wanaka in Central Otago. Winemakers Sarah-Kate and Dan Dineen lead the estate with a philosophy centred on small-lot precision, organic balance and the clear expression of site. The Maude Pinot Noir 2024 is a regional blend that draws fruit from select vineyards across Central Otago’s schist and loess soils, combining concentration from low-yielding parcels with freshness from cooler aspects. The grapes were hand picked and carefully sorted, then fermented as small batches in open-top vessels with gentle cap management to retain fragrance and shape fine-grained tannins. Malolactic fermentation took place in barrel, followed by maturation in French oak to integrate texture and length without overshadowing fruit purity. Bottled to preserve vibrancy, the finished wine sits at 13.5 percent alcohol and is dry in style. In the glass it shows a translucent ruby hue with lifted aromas of dark cherry, bramble, red plum, violet and subtle clove spice. The palate is supple, balanced and midweight, showing pure red fruit, silken tannins and a savoury mineral edge leading to a long, poised finish. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees Celsius; excellent with duck, venison or wild mushroom dishes, and best enjoyed to 2029.

Tasting Profile

Aroma:

Earthy, Herbal, Red Fruits

Palate:

Cedar, Red Cherry, Strawberry

Food Pairings:

Asian

Cheese

Red Meat

Spicy