Name: Wairau River Pinot Noir 2022 750ml
Brand: Wairau River
SKU: 951604
Price: 22.62 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 89.6 (5 reviews)

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Winery

Wairau River

Shop all from Wairau River

Varietal

Pinot Noir

Regularly described as being the grape varietal responsible for producing the world's most romantic wines, Pinot Noir has long been associated with elegance and a broad range of flavors The name means 'black pine' in French, and this is due to the fact that the fruit of this particular varietal is especially dark in color, and hangs in a conical shape, like that of a pine cone. Despite being grown today in almost every wine producing country, Pinot Noir is a notoriously difficult grape variety to cultivate. This is because it is especially susceptible to various forms of mold and mildew, and thrives best in steady, cooler climates. However, the quality of the fruit has ensured that wineries and vintners have persevered with the varietal, and new technologies and methods have overcome many of the problems it presents. Alongside this, the wide popularity and enthusiasm for this grape has ensured it will remain a firm favorite amongst wine drinkers for many years to come.

Country

New Zealand

As with nearby Australia, New Zealand has over the past century proven itself to be a superb location for producing high quality wines in vast amounts, with much of the cooler regions of both islands being used primarily for vine cultivation. New Zealand wineries are notable for their enthusiasm in regards to experimentation, and for utilizing modern technologies and methods to make the most of the imported grape varietals which flourish in the rich, fertile soils and oceanic climate. In recent years, it has been the New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc wines which have gained the most attention, as a result of their smoky character and ability to carry the mineral rich nature of the terroir they grow in. Changing consumer interests have brought about a considerable rise in the production of organic and sustainable wines in New Zealand, of which again, the Sauvignon Blanc varietals are leading the way in regards to excellence, flavor and overall character.

Region

Marlborough

On the north-easterly tip of New Zealand's South Island, we find the beautiful region of Marlborough, home to some of the New World's finest white wines and dozens of quality vineyards. The region itself has been producing their award winning white wines – most commonly made with Sauvignon Blanc grapes – in large numbers since the 1970s, and is today widely recognized as being home to some of the best examples of both modern and traditional styles of Sauvignon Blanc wines. The region benefits from its dry and hot climate, and the cooling oceanic breezes which help the grapes there reach full ripeness. One of the key features of the Marlborough region is the fact that whilst the days are generally very hot, the nights are cold, thus allowing the vintners who work in the region to considerably extend the grapes' ripening period and encourage much more expression of flavor and terroir.

WE 92pts

Wine Enthusiast

Like the turn of a pepper grinder, this is full of fresh white pepper aromas, laced with pomegranate, red berry and anise, with a cool stone nuance. The palate is vibrant and fresh with a tug of savory tannins and lovely tangy red berries. There's a lightness here that provides ease, and a quiet power that adds complexity, all at an affordable price.

DC 91pts

Decanter

Quintessential Marlborough Pinot Noir from a label with a long history in the region – the Rose family first planted its Rapaura vines in 1978. Very approachable style with fragrant cherry, berry, spice and milk chocolate notes; the smooth cherry-rich palate is silky and fresh, balanced with a nice acid line and fine tannins, moderate length and a juicy finish. Great value too. The next step up is the Reserve label sourced from the Home Block, with a little more intensity and oak.

JS 89pts

James Suckling

Cherry stones, earth and roasted strawberries on the nose. Plump and a little dusty with a medium body and powdery tannins. Earthy finish. Sustainable. Drink now. Screw cap.

WA 88pts

Wine Advocate

The 2022 Pinot Noir is all about sour cherry and fine, tea-like tannins in the mouth. While not being too complex, the wine is certainly pleasurable. A place for everything and everything in its place. Neat as a pin. 12.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

WS 88pts

Wine Spectator

Notes of cherry preserves and blueberry join a touch of pomegranate alongside green tea, white pepper and thyme accents on a sleek frame. Drink now. 8,000 cases made, 4,000 cases imported.

Winery Notes

Our style of our Estate Pinot Noir is bright raspberries and red cherries combined with savoury oak (from spending 9 months in French barriques) making it extremely approachable, bright and easy drinking. This grapes are picked in the cool of the morning to retain the vibrancy we get from our estate vineyards. Any red meat goes well with this wine, or try with a a cheeseboard!