There are more brands of pinot noir than any other variety, and each offers something different, in style, in reputation and prestige, in availability, and most importantly, in flavour and value.
BEST VALUE
$20
Three stars (out of five)
Good value
A lighter style of wine with hints of red fruit, perhaps a leafy suggestion but attractive savoury spiciness and minerality and a fresh finish. Simple but with some charm.
brancottestate.com
$28
Three and a half stars
Good value
If you enjoy full-on pinot noir that oozes spicy oak and lush sweet cherry and berry fruit, this is for you. It may lack subtlety but it's intense, powerful and showy.
stoneleigh.co.nz
$31
Four stars
Good value
A charming, lightly perfumed wine with red fruits backed by spicy oak, hints of toffee and vanilla, all nicely integrated and mellowed, with a silky texture. It's the one I felt I'd like to drink rather than just taste.
allanscott.com
$33
Four stars
Good value
Lovely juicy fruit - raspberries, boysenberries and blackberries, spicy oak with savoury undertones, a fresh, mouthfilling intensity and a nicely balanced, lingering aftertaste.
maindivide.com
$37
Three and a half stars
Average value
The little sister to Ata Rangi's acclaimed pinot, this is a youthful wine with suggestions of cherries and cranberries, spicy oak, hints of mineral, a savouriness, and a fresh, crisp finish.
atarangi.co.nz
$90
Four and a half stars
Below average value
A prestigious wine in a heavy bottle, this oozes raspberries, plums and mineral, with lots of spicy oak and hints of toffee, but the balance, harmony and lively acidity are exemplary. It will develop over many years.
craggyrange.com
ANOTHER GLASS
Stoneleigh Marlborough Pinot Noir 2013
$17.30
Three stars
Average value
A light, simple wine with hints of berry fruit, a savoury suggestion and a dryish finish.
stoneleigh.co.nz
