The 2020 Blank Canvas Una Volta Central Otago Pinot Noir is a rare, limited-release wine from Matt Thomson and Sophie Parker-Thomson MW, created to showcase exceptional one-off vineyard parcels. Sourced from the renowned Renaissance Vineyard on Felton Road in Bannockburn, one of Central Otago’s most prized Pinot Noir sites, the wine reflects the depth, perfume and structure for which the sub-region is famous. Crafted with a minimalist approach and bottled unfiltered, it captures the purity and character of this outstanding vineyard.
The nose reveals red cherry, raspberry and dried rose petal alongside savoury herbs, spice and subtle earthy notes. The palate is silky yet powerful, with layers of dark cherry, plum and wild thyme supported by fine tannins and vibrant acidity. Cameron Douglas MW awarded the wine 96 points, while Bob Campbell MW scored it 95 points, praising its balance, complexity and ageing potential. Richly textured yet remarkably elegant, it finishes long, savoury and mineral-driven.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A beautifully crafted Central Otago Pinot Noir that combines fragrance, depth and finesse in equal measure. Complex, refined and highly age-worthy, it pairs superbly with duck, roast quail, pork loin, mushroom dishes and game birds. Drinking beautifully now with a decant, but it has the structure and balance to evolve gracefully through 2032–2035.
