Ata Rangi 'Crimson' Pinot Noir 2023 375mls

Ata Rangi, which translates to "dawn sky" or "new beginning," is a small New Zealand winery renowned for its distinguished Pinot Noir. Situated at the southern tip of the North Island, it is owned and operated by a family team: Clive Paton, his wife Phyll, and his sister Alison. In 1980, Clive planted the initial vines in a rocky sheep paddock on the outskirts of Martinborough village, becoming one of the early pioneers of viticulture in the region.

Crafted with 20% whole bunch and aged in French oak barrels for 12 months, this wine shows a semi-translucent red color with a soft red tint. Its aromas include violet, red cherry, winter strawberry, and subtle rhubarb, complemented by earthy bramble and hints of spicy dried herbs. The palate is light and smooth, offering red cherry and winter strawberry flavors alongside forest floor notes, delicate dried herbs, and a touch of spice. It has bright acidity, fine-grained tannins, and a savory, elegant finish.

Clive Paton, a regional pioneer, was among the first to plant grapevines on the Martinborough Terrace in 1980, and his winery has since become an icon in the New Zealand wine industry. Known for the Gumboot clone of Pinot Noir, this cutting was reputedly smuggled into the country in a pair of gumboots from Domaine de la Romanée Conti's vineyards by a resourceful New Zealander. Ata Rangi received the prestigious Tipuranga Teitei o Aotearoa award in 2010, which is New Zealand's answer to the Grand Cru status, and winemaker Helen Masters has been consistently crafting some of the country's top Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.