Ata Rangi Pinot Noir
As always, the lesser seasons define the greatest estates. While many in New Zealand struggled in the warm 2011 vintage, Ata Rangi shone. Early seed ripening produced impressive structure, emphasised with 20 percent whole bunch fermentation, more than usual for Ata Rangi. The definition of black cherries, blackberries and violets is exemplary, framed in a tightly-honed and well-defined structure, with a coiled spring of tannin tension and refined mineral definition. Notes of liquorice and coal make this an intense Ata Rangi, though lacking nothing in poise and magnificence. $65 at WineStar, Canterbury Wines and Corkscrew Cellars.
By Tyson Stelzer
10 May 2013
Tyson Stelzer is a multi-award winning wine writer, television host and producer and international speaker. He was named The International Wine & Spirit Communicator of the Year, The Australian Wine Communicator of the Year and The International Champagne Writer of the Year. He is the author and publisher of seventeen wine books, contributor to many wine magazines, a frequent judge and chair at Australian wine shows and a presenter at wine events in 12 countries. TysonStelzer.com is your link to wine recommendations, book sales, tours and events.
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