The 2023 Blank Canvas Anthem Vineyard Pinot Noir is a single-vineyard Pinot Noir from the renowned Gibbston Valley in Central Otago, crafted by acclaimed duo Matt Thomson and Sophie Parker-Thomson MW. Sourced from the Anthem Vineyard, a site prized for its cool climate, schist soils and naturally low yields, the wine was fermented with a high proportion of whole bunches and matured in French oak, creating a Pinot Noir of exceptional perfume, structure and finesse. The vineyard has quickly established itself as one of the most exciting sites in Central Otago.
The nose reveals wild strawberry, red cherry and raspberry layered with violet, rose petal, thyme and subtle spice. Silky yet structured on the palate, it combines vibrant red fruit with fine tannins, bright acidity and a savoury mineral backbone. Shanteh Wale awarded the wine 95 points, while Cameron Douglas MS scored it 94 points, praising its elegance, complexity and ageing potential. The finish is long, refined and distinctly Gibbston in character.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A superb Central Otago Pinot Noir that beautifully balances fragrance, precision and depth. Elegant, savoury and highly expressive, it pairs wonderfully with duck, roast quail, pork loin, mushroom dishes and game birds. Drinking beautifully with a decant, but it has the structure and balance to evolve gracefully through 2032–2035.
