Who makes it?

Burn Cottage could be considered a Central Otagan Pinot specialist and The Moonlight Race is one of three Pinot Noirs they produce. While their focus is on excellent single vineyard Pinot Noir, Burn Cottage Moonlight Race is a blend of two. It is sourced from both the Burn Cottage vineyard and Sauvage vineyard. In addition to being a blend of vineyards, it is also a blend of vine clones. Each clone bringing a different trait to the blend. Both of these vineyards have been biodynamically managed.

How they make it?

It is no surprise that this New Zealand pinot has been produced following biodynamic principles. This means low intervention during winemaking. Similarly, it means low intervention in the vineyard. After ferment with indigenous yeast with low sulphur, the wine matures for 12 months in mostly seasoned French oak.  

What does it taste like?

I always find Burn Cottage wines to be very elegant and the Moonlight Race is true to style. It has tightly held complex aromas of red cherries, forest floor earthiness and an exotic spice mix. Their pinots seem to get the alcohol balance right in a region where alcohols can be high. This adds to the perception of poise to a medium bodied red. There is some lightly spiced raspberry fruit and thyme on the finish.

What to drink with it?

The Burn Cottage Moonlight Race is a wine that needs no food at all. Although, it is a wine that likes some time to unfurl, so let it breathe. If you really want a suggestion for what to eat with it, why not give the classic duck an oriental twist and try it Peking style.

Made for short term cellaring.

Quickie review « Hard to resist a Pinot like this that is bright and fresh yet smooth and supple from a benchmark producer.»

Country of Origin:  Central Otago, NZ
Tasting Date: January 2020
Price:  £35 | USD$35 | NZD $49 | AUD $60
Drink: now – 5+ years
Needs food: no
Source: tasting

Like Burn Cottage Moonlight Race? Click here to read the review of Burn Cottage Pinot Noir.

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