Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir

Marlborough is Sauvignon Blanc land — that's true. But Cloudy Bay has shown for years that the region can also produce Pinot Noir with depth and structure.

The winery at the northern end of New Zealand's South Island is one of the region's pioneers: founded in 1985, it shaped the style of New Zealand white wine worldwide. The Pinot Noir benefits from the cool Marlborough climate and the loamy soils of the Wairau Valley — long ripening time on the vine, well-preserved acidity, fine tannin.

In the glass, it shows aromas of ripe sour cherry, blackberry, and a hint of cedarwood. The palate is medium-bodied, the texture silky, the tannin soft and well-integrated. The finish brings a slight earthy note that gives the wine grip and character.

• Food pairing: Salmon fillet, duck breast, mushroom risotto, or grilled lamb rack
• Serving temperature: 16–18 °C