Description
What kind of wine it is
Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir is a still red wine that expresses the authentic character of New Zealand Pinot Noir. On the nose, it offers a complex bouquet with notes of dark cherry, blueberry and violet, enriched by hints of black tea, mushrooms and exotic spices. On the palate, it is dense and layered, revealing a silky texture that perfectly balances the concentrated core of red fruits. The fresh acidity supports a full-bodied structure, accompanied by intense and refined tannins that lead to a long and clean finish. This wine boasts prestigious international accolades, including 98 points from James Suckling and 92 points from Robert Parker and Vinous.
Where it comes from
The grapes come from a north-facing slope on the western shore of Roy’s Bay, by Lake Wanaka, in Central Otago. The soils are composed of terminal moraines and coarse gravels on a solid schist base. In this unique terroir, the Rippon estate cultivates mature vines whose roots delve deep, giving the wine an extremely defined aromatic profile. Managed by the Mills family, the property follows the principles of biodynamic agriculture without resorting to irrigation. This dedication to soil health allows the plant to purely reflect the territory, respecting the natural cycles of the vineyard.
How it is produced
This red is crafted to enhance the intensity of Pinot Noir, offering a complex structure capable of evolving magnificently over time, with an estimated longevity of over 25 years. To fully appreciate its elegant texture and aromatic nuances, it is recommended to decant for one hour before serving, at a temperature between 16 and 18°C. At the table, it pairs beautifully with meat dishes, particularly enhancing pork preparations and boards of mature cheeses, offering a sip that is always balanced and harmonious.
History and Curiosities
Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir originates on the shores of Roy’s Bay, by Lake Wanaka, where the Mills family cultivates some of the region’s earliest vineyards. Planted as experiments in 1975, the rows rest on schist and moraine soils, thriving thanks to biodynamic farming. This deep respect for soil vitality allows the mature vines to grow without irrigation, resulting in an exceptional 2018 vintage, internationally acclaimed with a prestigious 98 points from James Suckling.
Awards
Tasting notes
Perlage
Perfume
Color
Taste
Serve at:
16 - 18 °C
Longevity:
Over 25 years
Decanting time:
1 hour
In 1982 Rolfe and his wife Lois planted the first block of vines with the express interest of growing high quality wine and released their first commercial vintage in 1989. The land continues to be farmed by Mills family, together with dedicated long-term staff.
As winegrowers, the team's principal commitment is to the soil. Nurturing a healthly, responsive medium underfoot blinds the vines and the people to their land.
Biodynamic farming and no irrigation help the vine drive energy into its seed and produce raw material that can foster soil-friendly wines. Read more
| Name | Rippon Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir 2018 |
|---|---|
| Type | Red still |
| Denomination | N/A |
| Vintage | 2018 |
| Size | 0,75 l |
| Alcohol content | 13.5% by volume |
| Grape varieties | 100% Pinot Nero |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Region | New Zealand |
| Vendor | Rippon |
| Story | History and Curiosities Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir originates on the shores of Roy’s Bay, by Lake Wanaka, where the Mills family cultivates some of the region’s earliest vineyards. Planted as experiments in 1975, the rows rest on schist and moraine soils, thriving thanks to biodynamic farming. This deep respect for soil vitality allows the mature vines to grow without irrigation, resulting in an exceptional 2018 vintage, internationally acclaimed with a prestigious 98 points from James Suckling. |
| Origin | Lake Wanaka, Central Otago, New Zealand |
| Soil composition | Terminal moraines and coarse gravels on schists |
| Allergens | Contains sulphites |

