Martinborough Vineyard Home Block Pinot Noir 2023

Tasting Notes

There are few wines in New Zealand with the historical gravitas of Martinborough Vineyard's Homeblock Pinot Noir. This is, quite literally, where New Zealand Pinot Noir began — the estate planted the region's first commercial Pinot Noir in 1980, transforming a windswept river terrace into one of the country's most celebrated wine addresses. The Homeblock is the jewel of the estate: oldest vines, most complex soils, deepest concentration. Dark cherry and plum carry layers of savoury earth, forest floor and cedary spice, with a palate of commanding depth and fine-grained tannins that speak of many years ahead. This is a wine for contemplation, for celebration, for the moments that deserve the best.

Key Selling Points

Martinborough Vineyard is where New Zealand Pinot Noir was born — the founding estate of the region, planted 1980. The Homeblock is the flagship vineyard: oldest vines, most complex soils, deepest concentration. A benchmark of New Zealand fine wine with an international reputation.

Accolades

James Suckling — 93 pts.
Decanter — Gold Medal.
Air New Zealand Wine Awards — Trophy.
International Wine Challenge — Gold.
One of NZ's most decorated Pinot Noirs.

Winemaking

Hand harvested from oldest estate vines. 30–50% whole-bunch fermentation. Open-top fermenters, minimal intervention, extended maceration. Aged 18 months in French oak barriques (30–35% new). Unfined, unfiltered. Extended bottle age before release.

Cuisine Pairing

Slow-roasted lamb shoulder with herbs de Provence, duck à l'orange, wild mushroom and truffle risotto, venison ragu, aged comté.

Cellaring & Serving

Cellar 3–8 years from vintage. Optimal drinking window 2026–2031. Maximum potential 2033+. Serve at 16–18°C. Decant minimum 1 hour.

Wine Details