Ata Rangi of New Zealand's Martinborough region has long been considered as one of the finest 'New World' Pinot Noirs, in fact their Estate Pinot Noir is widely regarded as the greatest example of the variety outside of Burgundy.
Crimson is Ata Rangi's selection of fruit from younger parcels of vines from their various vineyards on the Martinborough Terrace. In their youth, vines tend to be more fruit expressive, gaining more complexity with time. Now, Crimson is developing more depth of flavour, with a mix of vines aged from 5 to 20 years.
The 2019 Ata Rangi Crimson Pinot Noir again provides a wonderful entry-level to Ata Rangi, delivering plenty of drink-now pleasure. The nose is complex and beguiling with notes of cranberry, raspberry, carraway and an earthy spice note. Offering a finely structured palate with a gentle sweet entry and enticing bramble fruits, it finishes with a flourish of fine savoury tannins; classic Martinborough Pinot drinking.
"Youthful, vibrant, fresh and lively bouquet with aromas of cherries and plums, dried herbs and silty soil layers, a fine lees and wood spice aromatics. Overall - vibrant, youthful and high energy. On the palate - dry, youthful, plenty of texture from tannin and acidity, bright young red fruit flavours contrast the texture and a vibrant youthful mouthfeel overall. Best drinking from 2022 through 2028+. 93 Points Excellent"- Cam Douglas, camdouglasms.com.
