2019 Martinborough Vineyard Marie Zelie Pinot Noir

Region	Martinborough
Varietal	Pinot Noir
Size	750ml
Alcohol %	13.5%
Vintage	2019
Country	New Zealand

It's been a longtime between drinks with Martinborough Vineyards Flagship Marie Zelie Pinot Noir, the previous release being from the drought-stricken 2013 vintage… and only 6 releases in 17-years. An extraordinary commitment to crafting a truly Grand Cru level NZ Pinot Noir – French Grand Cru Burgundies are usually made every vintage. This new release comes from the stunning 2019 vintage where a perfect mix of warm days and cool nights prevailed. The fruit is harvested from a selection of the oldest vines… (many over 40+ years old). The character and balance of the old vine fruit gives winemaker Paul Mason the finest material to craft a Pinot Noir with depth, intrigue, style and longevity. A winemaking mix of traditional and modern methods and access to the best French oak barrels enable Paul to craft the ultimate expression of their terroir… an opportunity he gets on average only once every 3-years. Marie Zelie should be cellared to and beyond 2030 to allow this Martinborough Pinot to mature and reveal its true magnificence. A miserly 1471 bottles made… it’s a true collector’s and ardent Pinot Noir lovers must have. Deserving and reflective of the reference of “Grand Cru” … 2019 is a new benchmark for this New Zealand icon.

Martinborough Pinot distilled to its purest form – aromas of smoky spices, red cherry and berry fruit, dusky florals, hints of truffle and more rise from the glass.

Succulent and lavishly fruited, but in no way heavy, this is elegant power and persistence vinified. Silky, supple, fine-grained tannins frame a core of densely concentrated fruit, already harmonious and enjoyable in its youth, but with a sense of confidence great wines possess. Unquestionably the finest Marie Zelie yet, this is a wine just waiting for a special occasion – and it’ll wait for you through 2030-2039… providing you store it with due care and reverence.