Founded in Central Otago, New Zealand, Prophetâs Rock is celebrated for crafting wines of purity, texture, and site expression. The CuvĂ©e Aux Antipodes is its most exclusive release â a collaboration between Prophetâs Rock winemaker Paul Pujol and Burgundyâs François Millet, formerly of Domaine Comte Georges de VogĂŒĂ© in Chambolle-Musigny. This partnership unites New World terroir with Old World philosophy, producing a Pinot Noir of profound elegance and depth.
Vineyard
Sourced from Prophetâs Rockâs Home Vineyard in Bendigo, the CuvĂ©e Aux Antipodes comes from north-facing slopes planted on schist and clay soils at high elevation. The siteâs extreme diurnal range delivers grapes of stunning balance â vibrant acidity, fine tannins, and deep concentration. The wine was crafted using traditional Burgundian methods: whole-bunch fermentation, minimal extraction, and 17 months in French oak (30% new), bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Vintage
The 2020 vintage was one of Central Otagoâs finest in recent memory â a dry, even season with moderate yields and exceptional fruit quality. The resulting wines display superb clarity, balance, and aromatic precision, combining concentration with refined structure.
Tasting Notes
The 2020 CuvĂ©e Aux Antipodes Pinot Noir reveals a deep garnet hue with lifted aromas of wild strawberry, cherry, and rose petal, layered with savoury notes of forest floor, spice, and mineral. The palate is refined and textural, offering silky tannins and a long, finely woven finish. It captures the tension between power and finesse â New Zealand purity meeting Burgundian restraint.
Criticsâ Acclaim
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98 points â Cameron Douglas MS
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97 points â Bob Campbell MW
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96 points â James Suckling
Universally praised for its precision, balance, and seamless elegance â a defining modern Pinot Noir from Central Otago.
Technical Information
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Region: Central Otago, New Zealand
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Subregion: Bendigo
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Variety: 100% Pinot Noir
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Alcohol: ~13.5%
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Maturation: 17 months in French oak (30% new)
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Closure: Cork
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Drinking Window: 2024â2045+
A Collectible Gem
The 2020 Prophetâs Rock CuvĂ©e Aux Antipodes Pinot Noir stands as a bridge between Burgundy and Central Otago â refined, textural, and timeless. It represents one of New Zealandâs most elegant and age-worthy expressions of Pinot Noir, destined to become a modern classic.