Few estates have shaped the modern perception of New Zealand fine wine as decisively as Felton Road. Based in Bannockburn, within Central Otago, the estate has built its reputation on clarity, restraint and an unambiguous sense of place. Fully estate-grown and biodynamically farmed, Felton Road’s vineyards are treated as individual expressions, unified by a house style that favours balance and detail.
The 2024 vintage in Central Otago is a tremendous success, with many, including perfectionist Hiroshi Kusuda, saying it's the best ever. Even ripening and natural acidity result in wines that show poise and precision. Pure fruit is supported by fine structure and mineral tension, with both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay emphasising harmony and clarity. This is a vintage that offers immediate enjoyment, while also rewarding patience in the cellar.
Pinot Noir remains central to Felton Road’s identity. Cornish Point Pinot Noir 2024 leads with aromatic lift and finesse, while MacMuir Pinot Noir 2024 brings more textural style. Block 5 Pinot Noir 2024 is the most structured and age-worthy, with a darker tone and built for the long term. Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2024 sits at the core of the range, a seamless, approachable cuvée that distils the estate’s philosophy and consistently delivers outstanding value.
The whites are equally assured. The single vineyard Block 2 and Block 6 Chardonnays refine Felton Road’s expression of the variety, with Block 2 leaning toward tension and mineral drive, and Block 6 offering greater breadth and texture.
These exemplars of modern Central Otago wines are available in strictly limited quantities. Don’t miss.