Escarpment Te Rehua Pinot Noir 2020

Drink it now or cellar for up to 20 years. It is recommended to decant it for half an hour.

The New Zealand winery Escarpment is located in Martinborough on the North Island. Founded in the 1980s by Larry McKenna, the estate now comprises approximately 24 hectares of vineyards, sustainably managed by viticulturist Rowan Hoskins. Winemaking operations are led by Tim Bourne. Escarpment wines are particularly prized for their high quality and for being a pure expression of the area's unique terroir.

Te Rehua Pinot Noir is an elegant red wine crafted from grapes sourced from the single Barton vineyard (located on Huangarua Road in Martinborough). Here, the vines are rooted in the deep alluvial gravel soils characteristic of the Martinborough Terrace. Following hand-harvesting, spontaneous fermentation takes place in tanks, incorporating approximately 20% whole clusters. The finished wine then matures for about 20 months in French oak (with less than half being new).

The result is a classic example of New Zealand Pinot Noir, boasting a brilliant ruby ​​hue. Its aromatic profile is broad and expressive, featuring notes of Morello cherry, dark forest berries, and plum, followed by hints of dried herbs, liquorice, and cocoa. On the palate, it is smooth, juicy, and lively, offering rich fruit concentration and a medium-to-full body. It has fine tannins and a long, harmonious finish. Pair it with filet mignon or Beef Wellington served with dauphinoise potatoes.