555. Ata Rangi, Pinot Noir Martinborough, 2006

NZD 84.92; 14%

Took this to Allegra’s wedding in the belief that we were bringing for our table… and then was lucky to be able to rescue it from the communal wine pool! I think a very characteristic example of Martinborough Pinot Noir, with a nose of crunchy cranberry and redcurrant, but overlayed with an ‘earthy’, quite smoky tone. On the palate, the coal-smoke flavour is yet more pronounced, though still with a red-fruit core. Savoury. Good structure, and even still quite young – a few more years would soften the slightly chalky tannins further. Great with a rich chicken stew. Quite deep ruby colour. Good