2011 Escarpment Pinot Noir Kupe, Martinborough

Kupe Pinot Noir 2011 Gourmet Traveller 97/100

Raymond Chan 19.5/20

Bob Campbell 5 stars

Robert Parker 93+/100

Lisa Perrotta-Brown 93+/100

The vines which have grown this wine have been our pride and joy since being planted in 1999. The spacing of 1.5m * 1m (6,600 vines/ha) is approaching the planting densities used in Burgundy from where the inspiration for this wine comes. The season was warm and drier than average for this block. It has created fruit harvested in brilliant condition giving ripe flavours and soft tannins. The summer was as good as the inspirational 2013 vintage. Fermented in wooden French cuvees, hand plunged and aged in 50% new French oak barriques for 18 months. It was bottled without ning or ltration, promoting soft mouth feel and balance.  It is at the vanguard of Pinot noir style in the New World and should age gracefully for up to 10 years. The wine is a true reflection of both Martinborough’s unique terroir and the skills and experience of winemakers Larry McKenna and Huw Kinch.