There is no such thing as Grand Cru Red Burgundy for 30 bucks.

But wait, what if we changed hemispheres?

“New Zealand has built a firm reputation for producing world-class Pinot Noir.” wrote Decanter just the other months, adding that “Central Otago has indeed been lauded as a ‘new Burgundy’, favoured by experts, sommeliers, and sustainable wine fans for the elegance and expressiveness of its Pinots. The growing conditions in Central Otago are not dissimilar to those of Burgundy… there’s also outstanding value New Zealand Pinot Noir to be found, as the country produces wines of consistent quality across a variety of price points.”

So, we went HUNTING for you. When we tasted this Rockburn at $50 it was impressive. When we beat that price down all the way to $30, we were BEYOND impressed. It’s hard to find anything at this price that rivals the complexity and sheer deliciousness, be it from California, Oregon, or Burgundy for that matter. All those glowing reviews speak volumes, too.

Every vintage of this wine seems to earn a long stream of praise from critics and connoisseurs alike, and this is no exception. Double the 95 points, from Master of Wine Bob Campbell and Sam Kim, the #1 authority on New Zealand wine. And we’re right in line with their assessment.

Rockburn is a top winery for sure, but it also helps that 2019 was a picture-perfect vintage, one of the best in the region. Juicy and ripe, this is the definition of a friendly crowd pleaser. Deep red and black cherries, sweet cola, rose petals, baking spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and pomegranate. We loved the stuff and agreed it sat right between a flashy California style and Burgundian sensibilities.

Anyone looking for a New Zealand Pinot to reshape their entire perspective on the region, here’s the one. A Wine Spies exclusive import, and highly limited.

95 Points – Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review

“Lifted, quite floral aroma with violet, cherry, wild thyme, anise and a hint of fresh herbs on the palate. A bright, vibrant wine in a classical Rockburn fruit-forward style. Good now but should benefit from bottle age. Drink 2020-2027.”

95 Points – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit

A magnificent offering; the gorgeously complex bouquet shows dark cherry, vanilla, thyme, dark mushroom and warm spice aromas, leading to a concentrated palate that’s richly textured and expansive. The wine offers terrific fruit purity and power, while remaining elegant and harmonious, making it hugely appealing.