Escarpment Pinot Noir Martinborough Kupe Single Vineyard 2013

Winemaker Larry McKenna is known to many as the “godfather” of New Zealand Pinot Noir, having helped the Martinborough region in particular—and the entire country along the way—realize the variety’s potential there. McKenna is a proponent of whole-cluster fermentation, and because 2013 was a warm, dry and early-ripening year, he included 70 percent whole clusters. The result is a wine with concentration and plush tannins to complement its intense aromatics.

Tasting Note

Complex, concentrated and intriguing, with fleshy blackberry and plum flavors at the core, showing highlights of black walnut, sandalwood, dried pine needle, black pepper and musky Darjeeling tea. The tannins are refined and plush, and the finish is epic. Drink now through 2030.—MaryAnn Worobiec