2020 Ata Rangi Pinot Noir

Only fruit, from the oldest parcels of vines at Ata Rangi makes it into this wine. The fabled Abel clone, allegedly smuggled from Burgundy in the mid-70s, makes up 40% of the blend. Incorporates 40% whole bunch fruit with maturation taking place in French oak (35% new) for a period of 11 months.
Deep dark red heart with black shaded edges and a dark red hue. Enchanting the olfactory senses are delightful perfumed like aromas led by red to dark cherries, wild strawberries and subtle anise infused with a mix of rose petals and violets. Hints of blueberry, spicy cedar and light forest floor are also evident. Rich, dense dark plum, ripe cherry and strawberry fruits flood the expansive palate with infusions of fresh herbs, spicy cedar, subtle earth and dried meat characters adding further nuance. Quite supple and full in texture it boasts outstanding concentration and power with a solidly built yet seamlessly integrated matrix of tannins providing great structure. Finishes very long and fleshy yet vibrantly robust.
Cellar 8-10 years.
Alc. 14%

Other Reviews….
A beautiful nose of sliced strawberries, crushed cherries, violets, grated nutmeg and a hint of white pepper. Some hibiscus, too. Supremely vibrant and perfumed with fine tannins that run the length of the medium-bodied palate. Textural. Ground spice and fresh fruit are intertwined, providing wonderful depth and complexity. So long as well. Seamless balance. Superb. Sustainable. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
98 points
JamesSuckling.com

The 2020 Pinot Noir reminds me of walking into a cathedral - that quiet, cool hush that falls as you walk through its doors. This is harmonious, supple, unshowy and unforced. Hailing from old vines and delicately textured despite the abundance of fruit concentration. Refined tannins with the finest of gravelly textures, akin to licking a stone. Scented yet restrained, with a fragrance of sweet red fruit, tea leaf and cedar spices with persistent acidity that carries it. Very complete and already approachable. Drink 2023-2038.
96 points
Rebecca Gibb MW – Vinous