In the cool-climate region of Martinborough, the 81.5 acres terraced Te Muna Road Vineyard is planted with eight clones of Pinot Noir in more than 40 different parcels. On the vineyard’s two distinct terraces, stony soils produce exceptional Pinot Noir. Grapes were 100% hand harvested and 85% destemmed before undergoing fermentation with indigenous yeasts in a combination of French oak cuves and open-top stainless steel tanks. The wine matured for 10 months in French oak barriques, 22% new, prior to coarse filtration before bottling.

16 Points
JancisRobinson.com
2015 vintage
93 Points
Wine Spectator Insider
2015 vintage
Harvest Note
The third of three consecutive exceptional vintages. After two great years in 2013 and 2014, the 2015 season started with a cool spring where the vines had to be protected from late night frosts. Combined with persistent North West winds the flowering for Merlot was delayed, but proceeded under ideal sunny dry conditions throughout the summer. Despite generally cool temperatures throughout the summer, there was a warm, dry spell that helped shift ripening back toward normal harvest dates. The Gimblett Gravels Vineyard fruit was harvested 10 days later than normal, but yielded exceptional quality especially in our Merlot and Cabernet Franc.
Tasting Note
Bright red cherry colour. Seductive aromas of plums, raspberry, dried rose petals and damp earth. Delicious and long feel on the palate with a fresh core of red fruits integrated with fine dry tannins to create a beautiful yet texturally dry finish.
Food Pairing
This wine pairs nicely with all types of lamb and game dishes, particularly whole duck and/or duck breast preparations.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Pinot Noir
APPELLATION: Martinborough
PH: 3.61
ACIDITY: 5.3 g/L
ABV: 13.7%
AGING: Maturation 9 months in French Oak & Stainless steel tanks
Unique Selling Points
  • Distinct, higher vineyard terrace with old, stony soils yields impeccable Pinot Noir
  • The higher-elevation Te Muna Road Vineyard is harvested about a week later than nearby sites; grapes have greater freshness and acidity
  • Single-vineyard Pinot Noir with complex, subtle fruit and very good length

About the Grape

Pinot Noir
In France, makes a silky, deceptively powerful wine of elegant, complex aromas and subtle, red fruit flavors, with earthy, floral, mushroom and mineral notes. In California, shows ripe, sweet characters.
On-Line Assistant
Ask the Expert
We look forward to hearing from you! Please choose a subject from the options below and let us know your name and email address before adding your message.