Mt Difficulty Roaring Meg Central Otago Pinot Noir 2022 is a vibrant, expressive and very well-made Central Otago Pinot Noir from one of the region’s most respected producers — richer and more generous than usual, reflecting the warmth of the 2022 vintage.

Roaring Meg is Mt Difficulty’s entry-level Pinot Noir, named after the historic gold rush sluice on the Kawarau River — and it consistently punches well above its price point.

My Wine Man

This is for someone who wants a genuine Central Otago Pinot Noir without the premium price tag.

Mt Difficulty is one of Bannockburn’s founding estates — a producer with deep roots in the region and a consistent track record for quality across their entire range.

The 2022 vintage brought warmer conditions to Central Otago, producing richer, more generous fruit with a savoury depth that makes this particularly satisfying.

In my view, Roaring Meg is one of the best-value Central Otago Pinot Noirs available — and the 2022 is one of the more complete expressions of the wine.

What makes this wine stand out

The 2022 vintage leans into richer, darker fruit — red, blue and black berry aromatics typical of a warmer year.

The palate is harmonious with rich dark berries and a savoury line underneath, with hints of spice and dried thyme complementing the succulent fruit.

Fine tannins frame the wine with excellent flow and a clean, persistent finish.

More generous than the 2020, but still very well balanced.

Style / drinking window

Light to medium-bodied with red, blue and black berry fruit, spice and dried thyme notes.

Fine tannins and fresh acidity provide lift, balance and a clean, dry finish.

Drinking very well now.

Why this is a smart buy

If you want a genuine Central Otago Pinot Noir from a founding estate at an accessible price, this is a standout.

It delivers:

• authentic Central Otago character from a respected producer
• richer, more generous 2022 vintage expression
• excellent value for the quality in the glass

Ideal for salmon, duck, mushroom dishes, lamb or casual entertaining.

Looking for a different Pinot Noir style?

• Mt Difficulty Roaring Meg 2020 → same wine / older vintage / more restrained
• Mt Difficulty Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2021 → same producer / step up / more structured
• Felton Road Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2023 → premium Central Otago / benchmark comparison

Life’s too short for bad wine.