Tasting Notes
Biodynamic. Both of Pyramid Valley’s Pinot Noir vineyards are densely planted on clay/limestone slopes. Earth Smoke sits on the richer soils of the two: an expansive, east-facing slope with strong, beautifully structured soils that are comparatively high in limestone. The name here comes from the nickname given to fumitory, a plant of the poppy family that can be found thriving in this 0.85-hectare plot. Although both wines share a familial DNA, the later-picked Earth Smoke is typically the more structured and darker of the two, with more fruit weight to go with its tender, fine tannins. The fruit for the 2019 was carefully hand-sorted, fully destemmed and fermented wild. Following 27 to 28 days on skins, the juice was pressed, then settled in tank before being transferred by gravity to French barrels for 16 months. - Importer Note
Expect deep aromas in the blue/black fruit spectrum but also loads of spicy, sappy complexity. The palate is compact with a core of red fruits and savoury, sappy fruit enlivened by fine-etched tannins and a salty, refreshing close. Long. There is power, but the overall impression is of purity and energy. A vibrant expression of Earth Smoke. - Winery comments.
Founded in 2000 in North Canterbury by Claudia and Mike Weersing, Pyramid Valley quickly became a benchmark for New Zealand’s artisanal and biodynamic wine movement. The estate is defined by its limestone-rich slopes, organically and biodynamically farmed to express the individuality of each vineyard block. In 2017, ownership passed to Steve Smith MW and Brian Sheth, who have preserved the original philosophy while expanding the range into other cool-climate regions including Marlborough and Central Otago.
Pyramid Valley’s approach is rooted in minimal intervention: hand harvesting, natural fermentations, low sulphur, and a focus on texture and purity. Alongside their home vineyards in North Canterbury—renowned for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay—they produce regional wines under the Botanical Collection and Pastures ranges, including skin-contact whites, rosés and varietal expressions that highlight New Zealand’s diversity.
The wines are recognised for their clarity, vibrancy and sense of place, uniting fine detail with natural energy. Pyramid Valley stands today as one of New Zealand’s most distinctive producers, embodying both innovation and deep respect for the land.
| Product Type | Wine Red Pinot Noir |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Region | Canterbury |
| Winemaking Practices | Natural |
| Vineyard Practices | Organic/Biodynamic |