2023 Seresin Leah Pinot Noir Organic, Marlborough

Seresin Leah Pinot Noir Organic from Marlborough is a vibrant, soulful red that blends elegance with a wild edge. Named after Michael Seresin’s daughter, this wine reflects the heart of the estate—organic, biodynamic, and made with as little intervention as possible. It’s a thoughtful, expressive Pinot that combines fruit from the Wairau Valley with a strong sense of place and purpose.

The grapes come from Seresin’s clay-rich, organically farmed vineyards, with wild yeast fermentation and minimal handling in the winery. A portion of whole bunch fermentation adds aromatic lift and a savoury backbone, while aging in French oak (mostly older barrels) gives the wine a gentle frame without overshadowing the fruit.

In the glass, it’s fragrant and layered, think black cherry, raspberry, forest floor, dried herbs and a hint of warm spice. The palate is silky and fresh, with fine tannins, bright acidity and a lovely balance between juicy red fruit and savoury complexity. There’s real texture here, but also restraint. It’s not trying to impress with weight, it wins you over with nuance.

Perfect with roast duck, miso-glazed eggplant, lentil salad or grilled salmon. It’s also one of those Pinots that doesn’t need a big occasion, just a glass, some music, and a moment to enjoy something beautifully made.