Sauvignon Blanc is undoubtedly the signature grape of New Zealand, but it might be more accurate to say it’s the signature white wine grape. The evolution of Pinot Noir in this wine-producing country is impressive, and the grape absolutely deserves time in the spotlight. While New Zealand has a reputation for refreshing, fruit-forward Sauvignon Blancs, the Pinot Noirs can have plenty of freshness too; but, true to their nature, they can also reflect of a distinctive sense of place, or terroir.
Today, New Zealand winemakers are tapping into the diversity of the island nation’s winegrowing regions. From top to bottom, New Zealand’s two main islands are about 1,000 miles long—roughtly the distance from Portland, Ore., to San Diego— and many terrific Pinot Noir vineyards fit in that span.
This latest Tasting Highlights lineup includes Cloudy Bay’s Pinot Noir Marlborough 2022, one of the top scorers, which is elegant with cherry and tea notes. Read on to get our full score and expert tasting note for this amazing New Zealand Pinot Noir and six others.
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