2024 Ata Rangi Crimson Pinot Noir, Martinborough

Vivid crimson. This is bright and primary with elderberry and purple plum flavours which burst across the palate before peppery spice, earth and floral notes emerge on the perfumed back palate to join the blackcurrant pastille which goes right to the finish. A concentrated mid-weight pinot noir firmly in the purple fruit spectrum, it may not possess immense depth or power but there is an irresistable fruit character here which is very appealing right now. Those who have the patience to cellar it will be rewarded in the mid-term with more earthy, spicy complexity as it unfolds 21 Aug 2025 Drink 2025–2032

92 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

Ata Rangi Crimson Pinot Noir from Martinborough is a vibrant and beautifully expressive red that channels the spirit of this legendary New Zealand estate. Crafted by winemaker Helen Masters, it serves as the younger sibling to the flagship Ata Rangi Pinot Noir, showcasing the same finesse and vineyard integrity but in a more approachable, fruit-forward style. The wine also honours the Project Crimson conservation initiative, which supports the protection of New Zealand’s native pōhutukawa and rātā trees — a cause close to the heart of Ata Rangi’s founders.

The fruit comes from younger vines on the estate’s home block and nearby sites across the Martinborough Terrace, where free-draining gravel soils, warm days and cool nights create ideal conditions for Pinot Noir. Grapes are hand picked and sorted before small-batch fermentation with indigenous yeasts. A proportion of whole bunches is included to add perfume and fine tannin, and the wine matures for around ten months in French oak, with minimal new wood to maintain freshness and purity.

In the glass it glows a luminous garnet red. The aroma is bright and enticing, with wild strawberry, raspberry and red cherry layered with rose petal, thyme and subtle spice. The palate is silky and medium bodied, with vibrant red fruit framed by fine tannins and lively acidity. There’s a lovely mineral thread and savoury undertone that hint at its Martinborough origins, finishing long, fresh and harmonious.

It’s a wonderfully versatile food wine, pairing beautifully with roast duck, grilled salmon, mushroom dishes or charcuterie. It also complements earthy vegetarian dishes and soft cheeses. Enjoy it now for its energy and charm, or cellar for five to eight years to reveal deeper savoury complexity.