Winegrowers of Ara, Pathway Pinot Noir 2008, New Zealand
Winegrowers of Ara is a fascinating project in Marlborough that I visited just before Christmas, before publishing an about this unique vineyard location. This is the entry level Pinot Noir from Ara, made using around older French oak barrels for around 40% of the blend. Very smoky on the nose, with a lovely sweet beetroot quality and dried cranberry and raspberry fruit. There’s a hint of sappiness and freshness to the character that carries through on the palate. The finish shows some more of that sappy, earthy character. Dry and food-friendly stuff that gives a very good indication of the style of wines from this producer. £9.99, Morrison’s.
