Dicey Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2022 is a medium-bodied red from Central Otago's Bannockburn sub-region, one of the region's warmer, more fruit-forward corners for pinot noir. It shows the bright red fruit and savoury undertone that has made Bannockburn pinot so sought after.

Red cherry and cranberry sit at the front of the nose, with dried herbs, a touch of forest floor and a faint whiff of dark chocolate developing underneath. The palate is juicy and direct, red fruit carrying through with a gentle spiced edge and a savoury undertone that builds as the wine opens.

Tannins are fine and well-integrated, acidity fresh rather than sharp, and the finish is savoury and persistent without ever feeling heavy, closing on a light herbal note.

It suits the kind of food pinot noir is made for — roast duck, mushroom dishes, or a simple lamb backstrap — anything with earthy or gamey notes to meet it halfway.

This is an approachable style built for drinking over the next three to five years rather than long cellaring.