Here are tasting notes for the Wooing Tree Sandstorm Reserve Pinot Noir (2019 vintage) — a premium Central Otago Pinot Noir from New Zealand’s coolest and most expressive Pinot region:
🍷 Appearance
-
Deep ruby garnet colour — rich and luminous in the glass, reflecting good phenolic ripeness and concentration typical of Central Otago Pinots.
👃 Aromas (Nose)
-
Perfumed and complex — layers of ripe cherries, plum and dark berry fruit develop with air.
-
Elegant violet florals and subtle dried herb characters add fragrance and intrigue.
-
Gentle spice and liquorice/anise accents give depth, with a touch of earthiness from extended oak ageing.
👄 Palate (Taste & Texture)
-
Rich red and dark fruit core — ripe cherry, plum, raspberry and berry compote are at the centre.
-
Spice and savoury layers — light pepper, earth and subtle forest floor develop mid-palate.
-
Smooth, silky tannins give structure without heaviness, while balanced acidity keeps the palate lifted.
-
French oak influence adds gentle spice and toast complexity, enhancing the mouthfeel and flavour depth.
🔚 Finish
-
Long, harmonious finish with lingering red fruit, spice and a subtle savoury thread — elegant and memorable.
🍷 Style Summary
This 2019 Sandstorm is a complex, expressive Pinot Noir showing the hallmark traits of superb Central Otago fruit — perfumed aromatics, ripe yet refined red fruit, layered spice and smooth structure. It’s drinking beautifully now but also has cellaring potential over the next several years.
🍽 Food Pairing Ideas
Pairs especially well with:
-
Roast duck breast with plum sauce
-
Herb-crusted lamb
-
Mushroom risotto
-
Grilled salmon with a light reduction sauce
