Gould & Morris Central Otago Pinot Noir 2024

Concentrated Pinot with a Savory Aroma

【Exclusively Imported by Bokumo Wine】

A Pinot with pronounced barrel nuances. Central Otago tends to produce wines with a predominance of black fruits, and this wine also has a slightly darker character.

But it’s not just about intensity. That’s what makes this wine so appealing.

Although it’s the same Gardo & Morris Pinot Noir as their Marlborough version, the concentration created by Central Otago’s semi-continental climate and its elegant tannins stand out.

New Zealand critic Sam Kim (Wine Orbit) gave it 96 points and five stars. His comment that it will be “at its best from 2026 to 2036” speaks to its great potential.

Its savory barrel aromas pair beautifully with beef steak, yakiniku, lamb, and charcoal-grilled chicken, as well as grilled eel.

Viticulture and Winemaking

The grapes are hand-harvested in the cool morning hours from several vineyards in the Cromwell region. They are gently crushed in a small open tank and fermented with natural yeast after up to one week of cool-temperature maceration.

They are then aged in 228-liter French barriques (small barrels). A full malolactic fermentation is carried out in the barrel, softening the acidity while enhancing complexity.

Tasting

The aromas are blueberry, violet, and thyme, with pronounced savory roasted nut notes from the barrel.

On the palate, the weight and depth of concentrated fruit unfold, revealing a smooth and rich texture. The tannins are beautifully integrated, offering elegance alongside power. The finish is long, with lingering savory cacao notes. It is an exceptionally satisfying conclusion that calls for more food.

Awards and Reviews

“A wine in which the purity of fruit and captivating complexity are masterfully balanced. Hints of dark berries, florals, dried mushrooms, thyme, and toasted almonds drift through. The concentrated palate offers weight and depth, further enhanced by a smooth texture and integrated tannins. Luxurious yet refined and elegant, with a delightful, lingering finish. Drink from 2026 to 2036” ── Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (June 2025)

96 points / 100 points, five stars (Wine Orbit)

About the Gardo & Morris Winery

A family-run boutique winery founded by Ben Morris and Frida Gardo. It has the unique setup of producing wine at two locations: New Zealand and Sweden. Their handcrafted wines are highly regarded at fine restaurants and state-run liquor stores in Sweden.

Founding Background and History

Winemaking director Ben Morris was born in New Zealand and studied organic winemaking at Lincoln University. After graduating, he gained experience in France and California as a “flying winemaker” before moving to Sweden with his wife, Frida, in 2006 to launch his own brand.

Frida, who is Swedish, leads sales and distribution in the Swedish market. The winery’s name, “Gardo,” comes from her surname and represents the couple’s partnership.

Viticultural and Winemaking Philosophy

In viticulture, they partner with small, excellent grape growers across New Zealand to cultivate grapes using a natural approach that minimizes the use of pesticides and chemicals.

In winemaking, they focus on a natural approach with minimal intervention to bring out the full character of the terroir and grape variety.

Sustainability and Cultural Background

Environmental consideration and sustainable production are core values of Gardo & Morris.

They strictly follow organic viticultural practices and eliminate unnecessary additives in winemaking, producing high-quality wine while reducing their environmental impact.

Founded by New Zealander Ben and Swede Frida, this winery truly serves as a bridge between the two countries.

Their wines, which blend the best of both cultures, pair beautifully with traditional Swedish cuisine and are highly regarded by local restaurants. 

About the Central Otago Region

New Zealand’s southernmost wine region, “Central Otago,” is renowned for its Pinot Noir and is often called one of the “three great Pinot Noir regions in the world,” alongside Burgundy and Oregon.

In addition to Pinot Noir, the region focuses on aromatic white grapes. It is the only region in New Zealand with a semi-continental climate, characterized by large daily temperature fluctuations and a cool, extremely dry environment.

It is also home to many small wineries, and winery tours based in the picturesque town of Queenstown are popular.

Gardo & Morris Central Otago Pinot Noir 2024