In 1994 the Brajkoviches established new plantings of Pinot Noir on their Kumeu estate with the aim of producing red wine to rival the quality of their Chardonnay. Carefully selected material from Burgundy was grafted onto extremely low-vigour rootstocks to limit the yield and intensify flavour. This is the fourth release of Hunting Hill Pinot Noir with no 2016 being made. The 2017 (the only Hunting Hill Pinot for which notes are available on the Kumeu River website) was hand-harvested and 100% de-stemmed then crushed. Indigenous-yeast fermentation with a 2- to 3-week total cuvaison. Thrice daily remontage or pigeage. 11 months' maturation. Just a little stringy/briary on the nose rather than sweetly fruity. But very nice smooth, flattering fruit and a suitably appetising dry finish. Could perhaps do with just a tiny, tiny bit more freshness. Still a little grating on the finish for the moment.