The 2022 Felton Road Calvert Pinot Noir is one of Central Otago’s most elegant and finely detailed single-vineyard Pinot Noirs, showcasing the unique personality of the Calvert Vineyard in Bannockburn. Felton Road’s biodynamic farming and minimal intervention philosophy allow each vineyard site to express its individual character, and Calvert is widely regarded as the most perfumed, supple and approachable of the estate’s celebrated single-vineyard Pinot Noir range. The outstanding 2022 vintage has delivered exceptional fruit purity, concentration and balance, resulting in a wine of remarkable finesse and ageing potential.
The nose is intensely fragrant and beautifully layered, revealing aromas of wild strawberry, red cherry and raspberry alongside rose petal, violet and exotic spice. As the wine opens, notes of thyme, dried herbs and subtle forest floor emerge, complemented by hints of blood orange, tea leaf and crushed stone. The aromatic profile is vibrant, lifted and incredibly expressive, displaying the signature floral elegance and purity that distinguish the Calvert Vineyard.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied with silky tannins, vibrant acidity and exceptional precision. Layers of red cherry, cranberry and wild berry fruits unfold seamlessly across the palate, supported by subtle savoury complexity, gentle spice and a finely woven mineral backbone. Compared to Felton Road’s Block 3, Calvert is generally more approachable and textural in its youth, offering a luxurious mouthfeel and beautiful aromatic lift while still retaining impressive depth and structure. The finish is long, graceful and persistent, carrying lingering notes of red fruits, rose petals, spice and earthy complexity. The style is elegant, transparent and beautifully balanced, reflecting both the vineyard’s unique character and the outstanding quality of the 2022 vintage.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an outstanding choice for customers seeking a premium New Zealand Pinot Noir with elegance, perfume and exceptional drinkability. Compared to many richer and darker-fruited Central Otago Pinot Noirs, the 2022 Calvert offers greater floral complexity, silky texture and finesse while still delivering impressive concentration and vineyard character. It is often considered the most immediately charming of Felton Road’s single-vineyard Pinot Noirs, making it equally appealing to Burgundy lovers, serious Pinot collectors and those discovering the estate for the first time. Drink now with decanting or cellar comfortably over the next 10–15 years. Perfect with duck breast, roast quail, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, game birds or truffle-infused dishes.
