Escarpment Kupe Pinot Noir 2018

The vines which have grown this wine have been our pride and joy since being planted in 1999. The spacing of 1.5m * 1m (6,600 vines/ha) is approaching the planting densities used in Burgundy, from where the inspiration for this wine originates.

The harvest period was cooler than normal with correspondingly fresher flavours, something we have been moving towards to gain better balance and elegance. It has created fruit harvested in brilliant condition giving ripe flavours and soft tannins.

Fermented in wooden French cuvees, hand plunged and aged in 50% new French oak barriques for 18 months. It was bottled without fining or filtration, promoting soft mouth feel and balance. The wine was given every priority during its elevation and now shows all the hallmarks of a grand young wine on release in 2018.

It is at the vanguard of Pinot noir style in the New World and should age gracefully for up to 10 years. The wine is a true reflection of both Martinborough’s unique terroir and the skills and experience of winemakers Larry McKenna and Tim Bourne.