2006 Ara, Composite Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand (stelvin)

While we've come to expect top Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, the same level of quality of Pinot Noir from this region is only just emerging. Part of the reason can be traced to the sparkling wine industry & the lack of suitably good clones for still wine production. A fine fruitier alternative to the more minerally Burgundy examples. Cherry red in colour, the nose sings with fresh, clean, composed raspberry & mineral aromas, while the palate shows a delicious weave of spicy, fruit-sweet berry savouriness supported by a fine structure. An excellent introduction to fine Pinot Noir. Partner with salmon steak, chicken or tuna.
(David Berry Green, BBR Buyer)

"I've previosuly recommended the Composite Sauvignon Blanc from the new, large-scale operation in Marlborough known as Wine Growers of Ara. They are working with high density planting, low yields and increasingly dry-farmed fruit. Now, they have introduced this Marlborough Pinot, bottled in screwcap and weighing in at a moderate 13% alcohol. With only 20% of the wine having been aged in French oak barrels, it has a nicely schisty and briary nose, with good Pinot perfume and a real sense of refinement. The palate has energy about it too, with lots of juicy cherry and orange fruit, and beautifully balanced acidity and tannins giving good length and a sense of precision. Fine stuff this, and well priced" (Tom Cannavan-wine-pages.com-May 08)
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