2008 Ata Rangi Pinot Noir
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
A magic vintage. After disappointing yields in 03, 05 and 07 the vines enjoyed excellent budding and early indications of fruitfulness were very welcome. Spring frosts were not as severe and no real damage was experienced. In addition, flowering proceeded in superb conditions in late November/December and the typically severe nor’westers of early summer were largely absent. Fruit set was good with the region’s usual compact bunches of small to moderate size. The slightly warmer than average summer and an autumn drought provided perfect conditions for the developing grapes. Harvest itself was dry and sunny, and proceeded without a hitch from late March through to the end of April. GDD 1,300, 15% whole bunch. Biggest harvest for some years, settled weather, fuller bunches. Very different aroma, with a definite ripe-fruit sweetness but also a touch of chocolate. c 35% new oak. Too me the oak effect seems more obvious but it still has a cool silky texture and good freshness. (JH)
Critic scores
Jancis Robinson MW
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The 2008 Pinot Noir presents a more delicate nose of raspberries, some kirsch plus floral notes of roses. Framed by a vibrant acid line and low to medium levels of very fine tannins, it finishes long, elegant and fine. Drink it now to 2018+. A winery that really needs no introduction for NZ Pinot lovers, there’s not much for me to add about the long-serving, dedicated team behind Ata Rangi – they just go from strength to strength. The Pinots have always been great, and yet even in a world where the Pinot benchmark gets higher every year, Ata Rangi is better than ever. (Almost equally impressive though are Petrie and Craighall Chardonnays, clearly getting a lot of love in the cellar from highly skilled winemaker Helen Masters.)
Mid crimson. A little overdeveloped on the nose. Sweet and just a tad tired. Respectable and very pointed. But chewy, a little raw and a bit ungracious. (JR)
Medium red. Sexy aromas of raspberry, spicy oak, fresh herbs and orange peel. Sweet, silky and alive, with harmonious acidity framing the intense red fruit and spice flavors. Finishes firm and persistent but not dry.