Vavasour Estate Pinot Noir 2023

Tasting Notes

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Awatere Valley — a narrow, wind-scoured corridor south of Marlborough's main Wairau Plain — Vavasour's Pinot Noir speaks a language of precision and elegance. Cool, arid conditions slow ripening dramatically, building intense flavour and bright natural acidity. Vibrant red cherry and raspberry are lifted by dried herb and a whisper of earth, leading to a silky, precise palate with fine-grained tannins that carry the fruit through a satisfying, medium-long finish. A genuine single-valley expression from one of Marlborough's pioneering families.

Key Selling Points

Pioneer of Awatere Valley viticulture. One of Marlborough's coolest sub-regions, producing intensely flavoured Pinot Noir with natural elegance. Family-owned estate with decades of terroir expertise. Exceptional value for single-valley Marlborough Pinot Noir.

Accolades

Air New Zealand Wine Awards — Gold Medal
NZ International Wine Show — Medal
Pioneer recognition for Awatere Valley single-valley expression.

Winemaking

Destemmed, cold-soaked 3–5 days, fermented in open-top fermenters with pump-overs and punch-downs. Aged 10–12 months in French oak barriques (25–30% new). Unfined, lightly filtered.

Cuisine Pairing

Roast duck with cherry sauce, lamb cutlets with fresh herbs, wild mushroom risotto, baked salmon, charcuterie boards, aged soft cheeses.

Cellaring & Serving

Drink now to 2028. Optimal window 2024–2027. Serve at 16–18°C. Decant 30 minutes if drinking young.

Wine Details