2021 Invivo Pinot Noir Central Otago New Zealand

Crafted in the breathtaking vineyards of Central Otago—basically the Hollywood of New Zealand wine country—this Pinot Noir is what happens when you combine world-class grapes, French oak barrels, and a winemaking team that’s just a little bit obsessed (OK, maybe a lot obsessed).

Rob and Tim, Invivo’s co-founders and everyone’s favorite Kiwi mates, treat this wine like it’s their firstborn. Sourced from three boutique growers who pour their hearts into every vine, this Pinot is nurtured with all the care of a precious heirloom. Gravity and gas are the unsung heroes in the cellar, moving the wine around gently while Rob agonizes over every single detail. French oak? Only the best. Wine nerding? To the max. And the result? A wine that’s silky, luscious, and layered with flavors that will make your taste buds do a happy dance.

This isn’t just any Pinot Noir; it’s the life of your next dinner party. Expect notes of ripe cherry, wild strawberries, and a subtle hint of earthy magic—like a walk in the woods with a bowl of berries. It’s as at home paired with roast lamb as it is with your guilty-pleasure Netflix binge and a bowl of truffle popcorn.

But let’s talk about Invivo for a moment. These guys don’t just make wine; they make waves. Started by two old-school pals in a London pub, Invivo has become a global phenomenon with over 600 awards, superstar collaborations (yes, Sarah Jessica Parker and Graham Norton), and a winery in one of New Zealand’s most historic wine towns. They’re proof that great wine doesn’t have to come with a side of snobbery.

100% Pinot Noir. Bright red and purple hues greet in the glass, followed by aromas of dark cherry, warming spices and a hint of earthy wild thyme. On the palate, cherry and ripe plum flavours follow, filling the mouth expansively. The finish is soft with a smooth mouth-feel. Notes of toasty oak combine with refined tannins and a delightful acidity that lingers. A powerful wine that shows great promise in its infancy.