Pioneer Block 15 Strip Block Pinot Noir

A dark, full-bodied wine with flavors of black cherries, coffee, and spice, and a hint of black olive brine. Its texture is silky smooth, with aromas of toasted oak and a lingering finish.

The grapes come from a single vineyard near Waihopai Valley. The fruit was harvested at full physiological ripeness and peak flavour. At the winery, it was chilled for five days before fermentation to maximise flavour and colour stability. Selected cultured yeasts were used to ensure optimal primary alcoholic fermentation. The wine was pressed when dry. The blend was divided as follows: 39 percent was aged in new French oak, with the remainder in older seasoned 225-litre oak barriques.
During ageing, the barrels were monitored regularly (for eleven months). Malolactic fermentation was completed in barrel during this time. The wine was
then carefully racked, blended and bottled.

Dry Pinot Noir from Waihopai Valley in New Zealand pairs beautifully with grilled duck, roasted salmon, or veal. It also complements mushroom dishes, such as porcini risotto, and cheeses like Brie or Gruyère. Its delicate tannins and fruity notes make it ideal with poultry in a herb sauce or grilled vegetables.

This family winery, founded in 1994,
is a pioneer in the Marlborough region.
It is now one of New Zealand’s leading
wineries, with award-winning wines year after year.