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Villa Maria Estate Cellar Selection Marlborough Pinot Noir

A standout for its price, all the more commendable in a vintage that did not flatter all in Marlborough. This elegant style accurately captures the character of Marlborough pinot noir in rose petal perfume, tangy red cherries, strawberries and pink pepper. It’s a graceful and effortless wine, underlined by finely structured, softly textural tannins that promise medium-term potential. $32 at Discount Wines (2011).