• Ripe fruit
• Stewed rhubarb
• Black Doris plum
• Plush tannins

"Aromas of plums and red berries, dried herb and a soft savoury seam, a mix of floral highlights and earthy mineral scents. Fruity, varietal and ready. A nice youthful texture touches the palate first then a core of red berries, cherry and plum offer contrast and with some dried herb a barrel spice. This wine offers harmony, balance and readiess for glass pour of with food. Well made with fine tannins and refreshing acid line and a decent finihs. Best dirnking from 2022 through 2027" Cameron Douglas, Master Sommelier, Apr 2022

"Beautifully lifted with spicy and savoury notes backed by sweet fruit nuances, it's fragrant on the nose showing ripe cherry, cured meat, dried herb and earthy mushroom notes. The palate displays succulent fruit intensity together with rounded mouthfeel and juicy acidity, finishing lingering and silky. At its best: now to 2023" Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, May 2022

"Deep ruby-black, lighter on the rim. The nose is sweetly-full, with subtle power, aromas of black cherries and strawberries, dark herb and smoky spice. Medium-full bodied, black cherries and strawberries enriched by thyme, clove and cinnamon, followed by cocoa and a smoky linger. The fruit is succulent with good weight; lively acidity supports a smooth flow with rich and comforting spices along a fine-grained line. This Pinot Noir has bold, juicy black fruit, spice details and a grainy textured grip. Match with barbeque lamb and shepherd's pie over the next 2-3 years" Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews, Apr 2022

With dark purple hues, this savoury Pinot Noir releases lifted ripe fruit and glazed cherry aromas with hints of smoke, boysenberry, stewed rhubarb and star anise. The palate is full of dark fruit flavours that fade to savoury notes. Soft acidity and plush tannins contribute to a glossy mouth feel and a smooth, slightly peppery finish.

The continental Central Otago climate is one of extremes – the fiercely cold nights and long, warm summer days allow the black queen to display pure, vibrant fruit. From vineyards in Alexandra and Cromwell, the fruit was handpicked from a mixture of traditional Pinot Noir clones 777, 115, Abel and 667. The wine was hand plunged and 20% whole bunches added back to the ferment. The wine was then matured with French oak for 4 months.

Food Pairing: Pair with crispy duck pancakes, pulled pork and char-grilled steak or venison.