2024 Allan Scott - Pinot Noir Marlborough (750ml)

Allan Scott planted some of Marlborough's earliest vineyards back in the 1970s and has worked every vintage in the region since, making him one of the true pioneers of New Zealand winemaking. In 1990 he and his wife Catherine founded Allan Scott Family Winemakers, one of Marlborough's first independent estates, and today their children Josh and Sara lead the winery, continuing a hands-on approach built around carefully chosen vineyard sites and a deep understanding of local terroir.

This Pinot Noir is grown on the stony, free-draining river flats of the mid-Wairau Valley, using Dijon clones originally sourced from France. Grapes are hand-harvested, then whole clusters go into open-top tanks for a week to ten days of cold maceration before wild fermentation begins, a method meant to draw out color and aromatic depth while keeping the fruit's natural character intact.

The 2024 is rich and fruit-driven, with red cherry, raspberry, and violet on the nose giving way to a juicy, succulent palate layered with spice, dark chocolate, and firm, grippy tannins. It's a versatile match for roast chicken, grilled duck breast, or a simple mushroom risotto.