Region: Waikari, North Canterbury, New Zealand
Variety: Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2023
The Wine
Biodynamic. Earth Smoke sits on a steep, east-facing slope southwest of Lion’s Tooth and north of Angel Flower, planted in 2000 at 11,111 vines per hectare. The soils are richer than those of its sibling vineyard — 30 % clay over limestone — yielding a Pinot that is darker, denser and more structured while remaining ethereal. The name derives from fumitory (Fumaria officinalis), known as “earth smoke,” a delicate wildflower that thrives among the vines.
The 2023 vintage was shaped by hardship: frost damage cut yields to 11 hl/ha, concentrating every drop of flavour. The resulting wine radiates precision and vitality. Aromas of sour cherry, black tea and damp earth mingle with wild herbs and porcini. The palate is silken yet grounded, delivering savoury complexity, gentle grip and the mineral drive that defines Waikari Pinot. Its fine, granular tannins carry the flavours through a finish dusted with exotic spice and red-fruit purity.
Cellared Says
Grace wrapped in gravitas. Earth Smoke 2023 balances quiet intensity with shimmering finesse — a thrilling, site-driven Pinot to cellar or savour. Drink 2025–2038+.
Wine Reviews
“In other circumstances this wine would command every inch on this page to sing its praises. It’s among the best Pinots I’ve tasted all year. A harvest diminished by frost has delivered great complexity, if not quantity. Sour cherries, wild berries and dried porcini, tightening through a fine, granular finish dusted with exotic spice.” — Nick Ryan, The Australian 97 pts
“The 2023 Earth Smoke is tender and transparent, mellow and mouth-filling. Restrained in expression within the New World context, it’s slightly reductive, herbal and fruity with strawberry and red cherry. Mouth-wateringly fresh, with chalky tannins leaving a fine powdery veil. Pure, satisfying and the essence of its terroir.” — Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous 95 pts
Region: Waikari, North Canterbury, New Zealand
Variety: Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2023
The Wine
Biodynamic. Earth Smoke sits on a steep, east-facing slope southwest of Lion’s Tooth and north of Angel Flower, planted in 2000 at 11,111 vines per hectare. The soils are richer than those of its sibling vineyard — 30 % clay over limestone — yielding a Pinot that is darker, denser and more structured while remaining ethereal. The name derives from fumitory (Fumaria officinalis), known as “earth smoke,” a delicate wildflower that thrives among the vines.
The 2023 vintage was shaped by hardship: frost damage cut yields to 11 hl/ha, concentrating every drop of flavour. The resulting wine radiates precision and vitality. Aromas of sour cherry, black tea and damp earth mingle with wild herbs and porcini. The palate is silken yet grounded, delivering savoury complexity, gentle grip and the mineral drive that defines Waikari Pinot. Its fine, granular tannins carry the flavours through a finish dusted with exotic spice and red-fruit purity.
Cellared Says
Grace wrapped in gravitas. Earth Smoke 2023 balances quiet intensity with shimmering finesse — a thrilling, site-driven Pinot to cellar or savour. Drink 2025–2038+.
Wine Reviews
“In other circumstances this wine would command every inch on this page to sing its praises. It’s among the best Pinots I’ve tasted all year. A harvest diminished by frost has delivered great complexity, if not quantity. Sour cherries, wild berries and dried porcini, tightening through a fine, granular finish dusted with exotic spice.” — Nick Ryan, The Australian 97 pts
“The 2023 Earth Smoke is tender and transparent, mellow and mouth-filling. Restrained in expression within the New World context, it’s slightly reductive, herbal and fruity with strawberry and red cherry. Mouth-wateringly fresh, with chalky tannins leaving a fine powdery veil. Pure, satisfying and the essence of its terroir.” — Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous 95 pts
