Matahiwi Estate Pinot Noir 2021

Matahiwi Estate Pinot Noir, Masterton, Wairarapa, North Island, New Zealand, 2021

Grape: 100% Pinot Noir, sustainable wine growing, fermented in small open top fermenters, 10 months' ageing in French oak barrels

This classic Wairarapa Pinot Noir combines lifted aromas of raspberry, blackberry, plum and herb with subtle earthiness. The palate is rich with sweet cherry fruit, chocolate, spice and fine tannins. 

The Matahiwi Vineyard, on New Zealand's North Island, was first planted in 1998 by owner Alistair Scott, and now uses several combinations of rootstock and Pinot Noir clones adding complexity to the final blend. The different batches of fruit were processed separately in the winery (using both plunging & pump-over techniques) to highlight their individual character.

Embracing practices which encourage a sustainable vineyard, inter-row plantings promote healthy soils and bio-diversity in the vineyard. The flowering buckwheat and phacelia attract natural predators for some vineyard pests, while clovers, oats, chicory and vetch provide nitrogen and other nutrients to vines when they are mown or cultivated into the ground.

Winemaker Miles Dinneen believes in making wines that express the purity of fruit from the vineyard and are a pleasure to drink.

Critics' Tasting Notes:

Awarded Platinum Medal from Texsom International Wine Awards, 2023

Also awarded 93/100 points by Wine Orbit

A superb accompaniment to roast duck, lamb chops with barbequed asparagus, and Grilled Butternut squash with onion and chickpea stuffing.