James Suckling at Terra Sancta
Terra Sancta’s Mysterious Diggings Pinot Noir 2024 has been named No.4 in the world by internationally renowned wine critic, James Suckling, in his Top 100 Wines of the World 2025.
Suckling and his team traveled around the world four times during the year, visiting dozens of wine regions, meeting hundreds of winemakers and tasting thousands of wines.
In total, they reviewed more than 45,000 wines from 18 countries.
The top spot was taken out by Château d’Issan Margaux 2022, with RAEN Pinot Noir Sonoma County Sonoma Coast Royal St. Robert 2023 at No.2 and Jean-Marc Burgaud Morgon Côte du Py 2023 completing the top 3.
Suckling spent more than four hours at Terra Sancta’s Felton Road vineyard, walking the vines, tasting through the range, and discussing the estate’s organic and regenerative approach.
“I visited Terra Sancta two weeks ago in the New Zealand town of Bannockburn, Central Otago, and the vineyards – mostly ungrafted and planted in the early 1990s – were among the most beautiful I’ve ever seen, with organic and regenerative viticulture,” says Suckling. “The winery doesn’t even have a U.S. importer. I’m still shaking my head in disbelief.”
Awarding the Mysterious Diggings Pinot Noir 2024 98 points, Suckling described the wine as: “Incredibly intense aromas of cherries, strawberries, peaches, melon and fresh flowers. Medium-bodied with creamy, open-grained tannins and a juicy finish. Refreshing and vibrant. A Pinot Noir for today.”
Terra Sancta was one of only two New Zealand wineries in the global Top 100 Wines, alongside its Felton Road neighbour, the Felton Road winery, at No.49.
“Hosting James and Marie at Terra Sancta was a privilege. James Suckling’s visit affirmed what we believe – that great wines begin with great vineyards, farmed with deep respect for the land,” says Terra Sancta co-founder, Sarah Eliott.
For the full list of James Suckling’s Top 100 Wines, click here.
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