"North Canterbury is the new-ish term used to describe the vineyard region close to Canterbury, which includes the Waipara Valley. In the couple of days I spent here, I tasted my way through many of the the wines, and these are my notes on the Pinot Noirs that I’ve tried. It’s a region that I’ve visited a few times, and I really like it. When Pinot hits highs here, it hits real highs. But it’s a cool region, and there’s sometimes a bit of inconsistency. For those unfamiliar with the region, this introduction is a good place to start."

Whistling Buoy Half Acre Pinot Noir 2015 Waipara, North Canterbury, New Zealand

Very sweetly aromatic with a cedary, spicy, slightly roast coffee edge. Spicy roast coffee and cedar palate. Unusual and a little oak dominated at the moment. 87/100

Whistling Kokolo Vineyard Pinot Noir 2015 Waipara, North Canterbury, New Zealand

Very attractive sappy red fruits here. Juicy but elegant with restraint and savouriness, as well as sweet red cherry and plum fruit. Very impressive and shows beautiful balance, with some floral detail. A bit of grip on the finish. 93/100

See full review here.