Felton Road 2024 Vintage Release: Central Otago at Its Finest

The 2024 vintage from Felton Road marks another high point in a remarkable run for this Central Otago icon. Following on from the standout 2021–2023 releases, 2024 delivers the same laser focus, vineyard precision, and site expression – but with a grace and harmony that nods to the 2022s. These are wines that balance elegance with intensity, crafted in tiny quantities from meticulously farmed, biodynamic vineyards.

Felton Road continues to operate under its zero-growth policy of just 12,000 cases annually, focusing on quality over volume. This approach, combined with decades of vine maturity, regenerative viticulture, and technical innovation, has secured the winery back-to-back Real Review “New Zealand Winery of the Year” titles in 2024 and 2025 – the first time any producer has achieved this.

Growing Season & Vintage Character

2023 and 2024 will be remembered as stylistic siblings – two of the most similar back-to-back vintages in years. Conditions in 2024 were exceptional for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, with balanced ripeness, fine acidity, and precise flavour development. Cooler nights preserved freshness, while warm, settled days allowed for a steady, unhurried harvest.

Nigel Greening, Felton Road’s owner, sums it up:

“We seem to be blessed with a great run right now. The 2024s show the focus and precision of 2021 and 2023, but there’s also something of the grace of 2022. These are classic Felton Road wines: consistent, pure, and expressive of place.”

2024 Chardonnay

Bannockburn Chardonnay 2024

A seamless blend from Calvert, Cornish Point, and The Elms vineyards. Aromas of citrus blossom, elderflower, and wet stone lead into a palate layered with ripe white fruit and a gentle hazelnut note. Bright, cleansing acidity carries the finish, leaving a lasting impression of balance and refinement.

Block 2 Chardonnay 2024

The most mineral-driven of the Felton Road Chardonnays, Block 2 is all about precision and tension. Flint, white flowers, and citrus peel lead into a fine, saline palate that’s long and tightly wound. Vibrant acidity gives energy, making this a standout for cellaring.

Block 6 Chardonnay 2024

The textural counterpoint to Block 2, Block 6 is broader and more opulent without losing focus. Layers of ripe stone fruit, subtle brioche, and a creamy mid-palate are balanced by a streak of freshness. A Chardonnay of quiet power and graceful length.

2024 Pinot Noir

Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2024

The estate’s signature Pinot Noir, drawing fruit from all four estate vineyards. Dark cherry and floral spice on the nose lead into a palate with generous fruit, savoury complexity, and silky, chocolate-edged tannins. A classic expression of Bannockburn.

Cornish Point Pinot Noir 2024

Fragrant and open-knit, with red cherry, plum, and a hint of dried herbs. The palate is plush yet finely balanced, with spice and floral lift supported by sweet, silky tannins. Rich and expressive, it’s a Cornish Point that will delight early but reward patience.

Block 3 Pinot Noir 2024

A study in elegance and structure. Perfumed with spice, dark cherry, and a touch of earth, Block 3 shows a seamless weave of fruit and tannin. Concentrated yet poised, with a lingering, refined finish that promises long life in the cellar.

Block 5 Pinot Noir 2024

The darker, more muscular sibling to Block 3. Intense black fruit, savoury herbs, and graphite form the core, supported by a firm, age-worthy structure. A Pinot of depth, gravitas, and immense potential.

Why 2024 is Worth Collecting

• Consistency at the highest level – another in a rare run of great vintages.

• Site-driven wines – each block speaks clearly of its place.

• Balance and longevity – drink beautifully in youth, evolve gracefully in the cellar.

• Limited production – quality over quantity, every year.

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