One for dog lovers, and a good cause. Beautiful Levi, featured on the label here, is New Zealand’s first bowel cancer medical detection dog. The Valli team are giving back, with proceeds from every bottle going to K9MD, the Otago charity that trains Levi and other dogs for the detection of cancer. But to the wine itself - it’s abundant, silky and rich, coming from the highest vineyard in Pisa, on the west side of Lake Dunstan. It’s ageworthy Pinot Noir and true to Valli’s expressive, densely flavoured style.

Having been an instrumental figure in the establishment of Central Otago’s wine industry, Grant Taylor started Valli in 1998. With a deft understanding of winegrowing in the region, he’s successfully pursued an exploration of the different sub-regions within Central Otago, as well as winegrowing in Waitaki Valley, North Otago. He hasn’t done this alone, with the very excellent Jen Parr joining the team in 2015. Jen is as engaging to chat to as she is a talented winemaker, and her considered, passionate approach is clear to taste in each bottle.