“I have long regarded Ata Rangi as the southern hemisphere's pre-eminent pinot noir producer.” Philip Rich, Australian Financial Review Dec 06
“Ata Rangi is easily the most consistent producer in Australasia, making complex, age-worthy wines." Tim White, Australian Financial Review Feb 07
“New Zealand’s greatest Pinot winery..” Huon Hooke, Sydney Morning Herald Feb 06
The dream vintage of 2006 has produced a lively, fruit-expressive pinot that reflects the strong Ata Rangi heritage. Selected barrel components kept separate during fermentation and maturation integrated unusually effortlessly on blending, immediately revealing a wine of deceptive power and grace - the ultimate reward for a winemaker, and the result of an exceptionally favourable season.
Sourced largely from the oldest home blocks now reaching 27 years of age, Abel (aka the ‘Ata Rangi’ clone) is predominant, but Clone 5 (or Pomard) and Dijon clones 114, 115 and 667 also play important supporting roles.
Sleek, ultra-supple tannins support the vivid red fruits, fresh plum-stone and ripe black cherry notes. Dark chocolate and rose scents add intrigue and promise, as do the fine savoury threads which run through the palate. Taut and restrained when young, this vibrant pinot will in time reveal its wilder, earthier side, along with voluptuous fruit spun in a shawl of silky tannins.
