From: Waipara Valley, South Island, New Zealand
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Taste: On the nose, it is aromatic and vibrant, offering notes of ripe red cherries, raspberries, and plums, along with subtle hints of spice, dried herbs, and a whisper of earthy undertones. There’s an immediate freshness that reflects the cooler climate of Waipara. The palate is medium-bodied and silky, delivering a lively burst of juicy red fruit, including strawberry, cranberry, and red currant flavors, balanced by a touch of clove, baking spice, and soft, velvety tannins. Bright acidity runs through the wine, giving it lift and structure while enhancing its elegant and persistent finish.
Pairing: Herb-crusted roast Chicken brings out the wine’s herbaceous notes, with its crispy, savory skin balanced by the Pinot’s bright acidity and red fruit flavors. For a richer option, Braised Lamb Shanks with Rosemary and Red Wine highlights the wine’s velvety tannins, while the rosemary complements its earthy undertones. A lighter pairing, Seared Tuna Niçoise Salad aligns the meaty tuna and vibrant vinaigrette with the wine’s silky texture and refreshing acidity. Similarly, Grilled Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze enhances Pinot Noir’s fruit-driven nature, with the tart-sweet glaze mirroring its cherry and berry notes. For a vegetarian option, Beet and Goat Cheese Salad pairs the wine’s subtle earthiness with the sweetness of roasted beets and the tang of goat cheese. Lastly, Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard and Herbs brings out the wine’s savory nuances while its acidity lifts the dish's flavors.
Lamb Necks Braised in Wine With Peppers
By Florence Fabricant
About. Sherwood Estate Wines, located in the Waipara Valley of New Zealand’s South Island, is a family-owned winery that has steadily grown into one of the country's most respected independent wine producers. Founded in 1987 by Dayne and Jill Sherwood, the estate was built on a vision to create high-quality wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Waipara region while maintaining a deep commitment to sustainable and hands-on winemaking practices. Over the decades, Sherwood Estate has maintained its status as an actual family business, with the Sherwoods continuing to oversee operations while instilling their passion into every aspect of the winery.
Wine Notes: The 2023 vintage reflects Sherwood Estate's hallmark philosophy of minimal intervention and gentle handling to preserve the natural vibrancy of the fruit. The grapes are hand-picked and carefully sorted to ensure only the best fruit is used. A combination of stainless steel and oak aging is employed—typically older oak barrels for subtle influence—allowing the wine to maintain its fresh red fruit character while adding layers of texture and soft tannin integration.
The 2023 growing season in Waipara was characterized by moderate temperatures and favorable weather conditions during harvest, allowing for slow, even ripening of the Pinot Noir grapes. This resulted in wines with excellent balance, concentration, and freshness.
