Overview
South of the Wairau, the Awatere Valley is cooler and more austere — its Pinot Noir has red-cherry delicacy closer to Burgundy than the riper Wairau style. Increasingly recognised as Marlborough's most refined sub-region.
In The Glass
- Colour
- Medium garnet
- Nose
- Red cherry, Strawberry, Raspberry, Violets and Earth.
- Palate
- Refined, Burgundian-tinged Pinot Noir — Marlborough's cool secret. Generally light-bodied, crisp acidity, soft tannins, dry, with a long finish.
Tasting Profile
Body Light2/5
Tannins Soft2/5
Acidity Crisp4/5
Sweetness Bone Dry1/5
Alcohol Medium3/5
Grapes
Pinot NoirSauvignon BlancRiesling
Aromas And Notes
Red cherryStrawberryRaspberryPomegranateVioletsEarthHerbsMineralForest floorSpiceCedar
Terroir
Coolest of Marlborough's sub-regions — strong Northerly winds create stress and concentration.
Clay loamGravelStony alluvial
Food Pairings
Grilled salmonDuck breastWild mushroomsPinot-friendly charcuterie
Notable Producers
- Fromm Winery, founded 1992 - Clayvin Vineyard Pinot Noir
- Vavasour, founded 1986 - Awatere Pinot Noir