Maude Wines Pinot Gris 2026 is a dry, textural Pinot Gris from Central Otago, New Zealand. Sourced from four sub-districts — Gibbston Valley, Bendigo, Lowburn and Wanaka — the wine combines the region's natural concentration and dramatic day-to-night temperature variation with the freshness and aromatic precision that defines Maude's white wine style. The 2026 vintage was one of Central Otago's coolest and latest in recent memory, delivering fruit of exceptional purity and vibrant natural acidity. Forty percent of the juice was fermented in seasoned French oak barriques for texture and complexity; the remainder in stainless steel to preserve the variety's bright aromatics. The result is a full-bodied, layered Pinot Gris of genuine depth and balance.
Appearance
Pale gold with bright clarity and a fine, clean rim.
Nose
Ripe quince, pear drop, musk and stone fruit with delicate aromatic lift. Subtle almond meal and biscuit develop with air from the oak-fermented portion.
Palate
Rich and full-bodied with poached pear, spice and a seamless interplay between oak-derived weight and the freshness of the stainless steel component. Bright natural acidity drives a clean, persistent finish with lingering stone fruit.
Winemaking
Forty percent of the juice was fermented in seasoned French oak barriques to build texture and complexity. The remaining sixty percent was fermented in stainless steel to preserve bright aromatics and freshness. Dry style.
Vineyard & Region
Central Otago is New Zealand's southernmost and only continental wine region, defined by dramatic diurnal temperature variation, schist-based soils and intense UV light at altitude. The four sub-districts in this blend each contribute distinct character: Gibbston Valley for cool-climate finesse, Bendigo for concentration and structure, Lowburn for aromatic intensity, and Wanaka for freshness and purity.
Vintage Conditions
The 2026 vintage in Central Otago was defined by a cool, long and late growing season. Cooler-than-average growing conditions delayed budburst and harvest dates behind standard timelines. Strong spring winds and changeable weather helped maintain healthy vineyard conditions throughout the season. Harvest stretched deep into autumn, with extended hang times delivering balanced flavour development, expressive aromatics and pristine natural acidity.
Cellaring
Drink now to 2028. A fresh, aromatic style designed for early enjoyment.
