Loveblock Central Otago Pinot Noir

Loveblock is the creation of Kim and Erica Crawford, the couple behind one of New Zealand's most recognised wine labels. After selling their original brand, they stepped back briefly before launching Loveblock a project driven by a conviction that what is not in the wine matters just as much as what is. The name comes from their belief that growing grapes with love, attention and minimal intervention produces something fundamentally better.

The 'Someone's Darling' vineyard on the Bendigo Loop Road in Central Otago was planted specifically to produce authentic Pinot Noir from one of the world's most compelling cool-climate regions. Bendigo is among the warmest sub-regions within Central Otago, facing north-west to capture maximum sunlight. The stony soil holds heat through the cold nights, creating ideal conditions for developing ripe, spicy, fruit-filled Pinot Noir. The clones B777, B667, B115, Pommard and Abel are selected to deliver floral lift alongside structure. The vineyard has been placed in conversion to organics since March 2022, reinforcing Loveblock's ongoing commitment to sustainable, low-intervention farming. Winemaker Kim Crawford leads the production, carrying forward a philosophy of minimal processing and genuine regional expression.

Colour: Bright crimson with purple hues.

Nose: Big, ripe black cherry with hints of mushroom and toasty oak spice peeking out behind rich, generous fruit. A subtle forest floor earthiness lifts through.

Palate: Fleshy black plum with layers of cherry and sweet berries that play on the palate and dance with hints of violet and savoury notes. Soft dry tannins and a long, satisfying finish.

Cellars well, up to 10 years.

Region: Central Otago, New Zealand

Volume: 750mL

Alcohol: 13.5%

Food match: Duck, lamb, salmon, mushroom dishes, soft cheeses