How to Age Central Otago, New Zealand, Pinot Noir

Aging Pinot Noir is an art, especially when it’s from Central Otago. Our Senior Wine Advisor, David, shares his insights on where, how, and for how long to age your wines for optimal flavour development.

A “cellar” may sound essential, but what you really need is a dark, cool spot—think a cupboard, basement, or even under the bed. Consistent temperature is key, ideally around 15°C-16°C, though more importantly, avoid excessive heat or dryness.

Before committing a bottle to long-term storage, try tasting it first. If you enjoy it now, chances are it will age well. To assess age-worthiness, consider acidity, tannin, alcohol, and overall balance.

Acidity: High acidity indicates good potential for ageing, helping preserve structure and flavour. Central Otago Pinot Noir’s naturally vibrant acidity makes it an excellent candidate.

Tannin: Tannin, influenced by grape skins and oak, contributes to a wine’s body and longevity. Central Otago’s warmest subregions like Bendigo produce wines with thicker-skinned grapes, resulting in fuller tannins ideal for ageing. In contrast, Pinot Noir from cooler areas like Gibbston or Bannockburn  offers softer tannins, making it deliciously drinkable now or with shorter ageing.

Alcohol: Moderate alcohol (12-14%) is optimal for ageing, and Central Otago Pinot Noir generally fits this range. This balance prevents the wine from feeling too overpowering as it ages.

Balance: Harmony among acidity, tannin, alcohol, and flavour components indicates that a wine is well-suited to ageing. When these elements are balanced, the wine is more likely to develop gracefully over time.

Pinot Noir typically ages well for 5 to 10 years from its harvest date. For robust Bendigo wines, ageing up to 10-15 years can enhance complexity, while softer wines from cooler areas may peak earlier. Remember, however, that Central Otago Pinot Noir is crafted for immediate enjoyment as well as future indulgence.

Ready to explore the age-worthiness of Central Otago Pinot Noir? Grab a bottle (or two!), taste, and embark on your journey of wine discovery. Cheers to ageing beautifully!