Greywacke Archive Pinot Noir / 2017 / 750mL

Greywacke Archive Pinot Noir 2017 is an aged release of Marlborough pinot noir, a variety more usually associated with Central Otago but grown here with real success. Time in bottle has pushed it firmly into savoury, developed territory, well past the bright red fruit of its youth, into something closer to a mature Burgundy in character.

Dried cherry, forest floor and a touch of game lead the nose, the primary red fruit of its youth now secondary to more earthy, complex aromas, with a faint hint of dried herbs. The palate follows suit, savoury flavours carrying through a fully resolved structure with real length.

Tannins have softened right down and integrated with the fruit, and the finish is long, savoury and gently spiced rather than fruit-driven, closing on a faint earthy note.

Pair it with duck, mushroom dishes, or a slow-braised lamb shoulder — anything earthy that can meet its developed, savoury character without overwhelming what fruit remains, whether that is mushroom risotto or a simple duck ragù.

This bottle is fully mature and ready to drink now.