Buy of the Week NZ
Stephen Wong MW in Buys of the Week Become a member to view this article
The Real Review is editorially independent. We don’t sell wine. We are free of influence from vested interests such as wine producers and sellers, and proprietors with conflicts. We tell you what we think about reviewed wines, served straight up. Our articles cover topics our writers choose because of genuine interest.
We rely on our members to publish The Real Review. Membership provides access to thousands of articles, a growing database of more than 160,000 wine tasting notes, exclusive member discounts and more.
Eradus Awatere Valley Pinot Noir 2024, Marlborough, NZD $25
A classically cooler-climate, vine tomato style of Awatere pinot noir, this comes from a narrow terrace in the subregion. The vines are now 24 years old and feel the effects of the ocean winds coming on-shore. With subtle oak from 10 months of élevage, this is fresh and crunchy, representing good value for a drink-young wine but it will also reward those who keep it for a year or two with savoury complexity.
Youthfully closed, the nose reluctantly yields black plum and savoury vine tomato with air. Some lightly chewy and minty tannins on the finish amplify cranberry, tomato stalk and leaf notes. It has a forward, crisply herbal expression which balances bright acidity with crunchy fruit for near-term enjoyment. (Screwcap)
Score: 88 ★★★ – view original tasting note
Alcohol: 12.5%
Ageing: now to 2030
Food: hot smoked salmon with beetroot salad
Stockists: Eradus Wines; Vino Fino, Christchurch and online (NZ)
Ranked: #32 of 33 2024 Pinot Noir from New Zealand