In case you were distracted by the bright lights of Martinborough and Central Otago, we’d like to make the point that North Canterbury produces amazing Pinot Noir. Just like this one. It’s layered with aromatics of sweet, bright cherry with an earthy undertone. Fruit coats it’s precise structure. Takahiro sourced fruit from the Pearson vineyard, planted in 2004 on the western side of the Waipara Valley. It’s aged in French oak for 18 months.

Taka K is the new label from North Canterbury-based winemaker Takahiro Koyama. Appropriate to this fresh start, the image on the label of a dragon eating its own tail is an ancient symbol of rebirth. Takahiro came to New Zealand from Japan to study Viticulture at Lincoln. Working under CP Lin at Mountford Estate, he became assistant winemaker there, and not long after that he started producing his own unique wines.