2022 Te Kairanga Estate Pinot Noir, Martinborough

Te Kairanga Estate Pinot Noir from Martinborough is a beautifully crafted red wine that embodies the elegance and complexity for which this New Zealand wine region is renowned. Produced by Te Kairanga, one of Martinborough’s pioneering wineries, this Pinot Noir showcases the region’s cool-climate character and the winery’s commitment to expressing the unique terroir of their estate vineyards.

The grapes for this Pinot Noir are sourced from Te Kairanga’s sustainably farmed vineyards, situated on free-draining alluvial soils. The cool, dry climate of Martinborough, coupled with consistent winds and long sunshine hours, allows Pinot Noir to ripen slowly, developing concentrated flavors and vibrant acidity while maintaining its hallmark aromatic intensity.

Winemaking is overseen by Chief Winemaker John Kavanagh, who emphasizes minimal intervention to highlight the purity of the fruit. Grapes are hand-harvested and gently destemmed before fermentation in small open-top fermenters. A portion of whole bunches is included to enhance structure and aromatics. The wine is aged in French oak barrels for 10-12 months, with a careful balance of new and seasoned oak to add complexity without overpowering the fruit.

In the glass, Te Kairanga Estate Pinot Noir displays a bright ruby-red hue. The nose is aromatic and layered, with notes of red cherries, wild raspberries, and plums, interwoven with hints of rose petals, spice, and a touch of earthy forest floor. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and silky, with fine tannins and vibrant acidity framing flavors of ripe red fruit, cranberry, and subtle oak. The finish is elegant and long, showcasing the wine’s finesse and balance.

This Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with dishes like roasted duck, grilled salmon, or mushroom risotto. It also complements a variety of cheeses, particularly soft-ripened varieties such as Brie or washed-rind cheeses. While approachable upon release, the wine has the structure to age gracefully for 5-7 years, developing additional complexity with time.

Deep, dark intense Burgundy in colour, this Pinot Noir leads with seductive dark berry fruit. A fine savoury spice undertone on the nose leads to a ripe, intense, and pleasing palate with dark rich fruit flowing to a full savoury finish. Fine smooth tannins add a soft structure and texture to finish. The perfect match for game meat such as pan seared Venison with chimichurri and root vegetables