Taka K’s Waipara Pinot Noir 2023 captures the bright, savoury charm that Waipara does so well—red-fruited purity, aromatic lift, and a gently earthy undercurrent. Made in a fresh, modern Pinot style, it balances vibrant fruit with fine, sandy tannins and a quietly spicy, food-friendly edge.

Appearance:

Bright ruby with a translucent core and a garnet-tinged rim. Light to medium intensity in the glass, with a subtle sheen and delicate, quick legs that signal an elegant, silky build rather than heavy extraction.

Aroma:

Wild strawberry, red cherry and cranberry, layered with rose petal, dried thyme, forest floor and a touch of baking spice. A faint smoky note and gentle oak sweetness sit in the background, more framing than flavour.

Taste:

Juicy and precise—red berries and cherry skin up front, then a savoury shift into earthy spice, tea leaf and gentle sappiness. The texture is supple and gliding, with fine tannins and bright acidity keeping everything fresh and lifted. Subtle oak adds a whisper of vanilla and toast without overtaking the fruit.

Finish:

Medium-long and neatly tapered, leaving red fruit, soft spice and a lightly earthy, stony impression with refreshing lift.

Food Pairing:

Roast chicken with herbs, duck with cherry sauce, lamb cutlets, mushroom risotto, grilled salmon, or pork belly with apple and fennel.