2023 Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir, Marlborough

Serious, deeper, stalky and more brooding black fruit which expands on the palate before dusty tannins grip across the drying and woody finish. Closed, with savoury tomato and mocha oak notes developing on the moderate-length finish. Some innate complexity with the smoky oak which will gain more breadth and perfume in time. A more traditional, muscular style of NZ pinot 17 Dec 2024 Drink 2024–2034

91 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir is a refined and expressive wine that highlights Marlborough’s ability to produce elegant, aromatic Pinot with a vibrant, modern edge. Cloudy Bay, founded in 1985, is one of New Zealand’s most internationally acclaimed wineries, credited with putting Marlborough on the global wine map. While best known for Sauvignon Blanc, the estate has long invested in Pinot Noir, sourcing fruit from their premium Southern Valleys vineyards to craft a style that combines purity of fruit, fine structure, and subtle complexity.

The vineyards are located in the cooler, elevated Southern Valleys subregion, where clay-rich soils over free-draining gravels provide excellent water regulation and encourage vines to dig deep, resulting in fruit with intensity and texture. The region’s cool nights and long growing season allow grapes to ripen slowly, building complex flavours while retaining bright natural acidity. The fruit is hand harvested and fermented in open-top vessels, using a mix of whole berries and whole bunches to enhance aromatic lift and tannin finesse. Maturation takes place in French oak barriques, a portion of which are new, lending gentle spice and texture without overpowering the fruit.

In the glass, Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir has a translucent ruby hue with lifted aromas of red cherries, wild raspberries, violets, and subtle earthy notes. The palate is medium bodied and silky, showing vibrant red fruit framed by fine tannins and refreshing acidity. Layers of spice, forest floor, and savoury herbs add complexity, leading to a long, graceful finish. It’s a beautifully balanced Pinot that reflects both the terroir of Marlborough and Cloudy Bay’s meticulous winemaking.

This wine pairs effortlessly with roast duck, grilled salmon, mushroom and thyme risotto, or beetroot salad with goat’s cheese. It also works well with charcuterie and soft washed-rind cheeses. Enjoy it in its youth for vibrancy, or cellar for 6 to 8 years to develop further savoury nuance and silky texture.