2022 Nga Waka Lease Block Pinot Noir, Martinborough

Seductive and engaging, the wine shows ripe cherry, bouquet garni, dried mushroom, cured meat and almond characters on the nose, followed by a concentrated palate offering plush texture backed by layers of fine-grained tannins, finishing impressively long and expansive. At its best: now to 2034.

95 points Sam Kim Wine Orbit

Martinborough has long been one of New Zealand's great Pinot Noir regions, and Nga Waka has played a significant role in establishing that reputation. Founded by the late Roger Parkinson in 1988, the winery quickly became known for producing wines of balance, elegance and authenticity rather than chasing power or fashion. Today, Roger's son Will Parkinson continues the family legacy, crafting wines that faithfully reflect the unique character of Martinborough's ancient river terraces and cool maritime climate.

The Lease Block Pinot Noir comes from a carefully selected vineyard site that consistently delivers fruit with depth, perfume and structure. The 2022 vintage provided excellent growing conditions, producing grapes with vibrant acidity, fine tannins and impressive flavour concentration. Sensitive winemaking and maturation in French oak allow the vineyard's personality to shine while adding subtle layers of complexity.

Bright ruby red in colour, the bouquet is immediately inviting with aromas of dark cherry, wild strawberry and red plum intertwined with rose petal, dried herbs and exotic spice. As the wine opens, notes of forest floor, clove and a touch of cedar emerge, adding further intrigue. The palate is beautifully poised, combining juicy red and dark berry fruits with silky texture and finely detailed tannins. There is a lovely savoury thread running through the wine, balanced by fresh acidity and a lingering finish that echoes with cherry, spice and earthy complexity.

This style of Pinot Noir is wonderfully versatile at the table. Pair it with duck breast and cherry glaze, roast pork with crackling, grilled salmon, mushroom and thyme risotto or a lentil and walnut Wellington. The wine's balance and structure will allow it to evolve gracefully over the next eight to twelve years, developing greater savoury nuance and complexity. Elegant rather than powerful, it captures the charm and refinement that have made Martinborough Pinot Noir admired around the world.

Cellaring: Drink from now through 2034.