Wairau River has taken out the top Pinot Noir in the latest Cuisine Magazine Pinot Noir tasting with their Wairau River Reserve Pinot Noir 2014.
This was followed closely behind in 8th position for the Wairau River Estate Pinot Noir 2014.
Ranking #1 and #8 and both being awarded five stars out of 172 wines tasted is no small feat for the founding Marlborough producers. The past 3 years have seen the first position reserved for Central Otago wineries, however this year, five out of the top ten wines awarded hailed from Marlborough, signaling the region as a serious contender when it comes to growing and making this illustrious variety.
The Wairau River Reserve Pinot Noir 2014 was applauded by the tasting panel as “A ripe succulent wine, well-endowed with welcoming fruit and a warm, enveloping textural embrace.”
The Estate Pinot Noir 2014 was praised for it’s “elegant expression” and has also been awarded as a ‘Best Buy’ indicating an outstanding mix of quality and price.
Both of the Wairau River Pinot Noirs were sourced from the Rose family estate vineyards located in the Wairau Valley, traditionally an area of Marlborough renowned for producing exceptionally aromatic Sauvignon Blanc. Winemakers Nick Entwistle and Sam Rose believe the 2014 Pinot Noirs outstanding quality is a combination of factors.
“Mature vines and dry, settled weather during ripening yielded fruit of exceptional quality. Gentle handling in the winery utilising modern equipment and traditional techniques ensured the wines retained elegance and poise, with maturation in French oak barriques contributing savoury elements and structure to support the fruit expression.”
“The vineyard team did an exceptional job, when the fruit quality is that good the winemaking is simple” said Nick.
Wairau River is one of Marlborough’s oldest and largest family owned and managed wineries. Founders, Phil and Chris Rose pioneered the northern parts of the Wairau Valley establishing their first vineyards in 1978. Today their five children and extended family join them in the business. Nurturing the skills and talents of each member, Wairau River embodies the Rose family’s strength, individuality and teamwork.
