High-Scoring Pinots from Escarpment Just Arrived!

The “godfather” of New Zealand Pinot Noir Escarpment Winemaker Larry Mckenna has help the Martinborough region catch fire in the past few years. His theory of whole-cluster fermentation, and the fact that 2013 season was a early ripening year, 70 percent of the grapes were whole clusters. This process lead to outstanding pinots with intense aromatics.

Pinot’s in New Zealand

Until recently, the island nation was primarily known for its distinctive Sauvignon Blancs, but Pinot Noir has rapidly ascended to excellence, with regions Marlborough leading the way.

Pinot Noir 2014

94pts Wine Enthusiast; 93pts Wine Spectator

“Winemaker Larry McKenna now has 30 years of experience with Martinborough Pinot Noir, and its on full display in this blend assembled from various plots around the village. Aromas of flowers, tea and cola lead into flavors of blackberries, vanilla and spice, framed by ample tannins.”

Pinot Noir “KIWA”  2014

95pts James Suckling; 92pts Wine Enthusiast; 90pts Wine Spectator

“A gently smoky and highly nuanced nose offers discreet yet complex sappy notes as well as a lighter stony and almost chalky edge. Beautifully ripe red and dark cherries grow and grow in the glass. The palate has a curvy, fleshy shape to it; it’s really smooth and supple thanks to nut-ripe tannins. Hints of graphite-like savory flavours and bright dark cherry fruit power through the neatly framed, crisp finish.” –

Pinot Noir “PAHI” 2014

97pts James Suckling; 93pts Wine Enthusiast; 91pts Wine Spectator

“The clear and swirling whole-bunch aromatics here are really charming and bursting with attractive and complex pinot perfumes such as rose petals, sweet spices and bright red-tinged berry fruits. The palate has handy definition, light and shade, powerful yet reserved detail and long tannins that run in unison through a very focused, juicy and punchy crisp finish. I love this wine for its elegance and power; it’s great pinot at its finest.”

Pinot Noir “TE REHUA” 2014

92pts Wine Spectator

“Robust and intense, with plenty of fresh earth notes, muscular tannins and smoky tea, rosemary and roasted plum flavors. Complex and generous on the finish, ending harmoniously.”

Pinot Noir “KUPE” 2014

97pts James Suckling; 94pts Wine Spectator

“Deeply complex, indulging from the outset in graphite and black cherries on the nose, in fine combination with dark spices, rosehip, toasty oak and sweet, freshly dug earth. The palate rolls through like a perfectly formed wave, delivering an arc of dark-plum and cherry fruit, as the tannins curl and twist on the finish before releasing a fresh surge of tangy plum flavors. They hold long and bold, making for a highly impressive wine.”