Ata Rangi Crimson Pinot Noir 2022

Region and Vineyards

Ata Rangi is located in Martinborough, a wine region renowned for producing some of New Zealand's finest Pinot Noir. This southernmost tip of the North Island enjoys a cool climate, with a long growing season that allows the grapes to develop intense flavor and aroma profiles. The Martinborough Terrace is famed for its free-draining alluvial soils, which contribute to the concentrated flavors and complexity of the wines.

The Ata Rangi vineyards benefit from an optimal combination of cool breezes, which help retain acidity in the grapes, and ample sunshine, which ensures full ripeness. The Crimson Pinot Noir is crafted from a selection of younger vines, ranging from 5 to 25 years old, adding vibrancy and a dynamic fruit character to the wine, while the older vines contribute a more profound, savory complexity.

Winemaking

This vintage of Crimson Pinot Noir reflects a blend of traditional and modern winemaking techniques. The grapes were hand-harvested, with 90% of the fruit being de-stemmed and 10% undergoing whole bunch fermentation, lending the wine a fine, structured texture. Fermentation was initiated using indigenous yeasts, ensuring a natural expression of the vineyard's terroir. The wine was then aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, contributing subtle oak nuances and depth.

The meticulous winemaking process allows the fruit purity to shine through, while maintaining elegance and balance, ensuring the wine remains approachable yet complex.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Mid ruby with an almost transparent hue, reflecting its youthful vibrancy.
• Aroma: A bright and enticing bouquet of rosehip and pomegranate, layered with spice notes of cardamom and ginger. Hints of manuka smoke and prosciutto provide a savory complexity.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine opens with fresh flavors of raspberry compote, rhubarb, and orange zest. The smooth, supple entry is supported by fine tannins, while the wine’s lively acidity ensures a long, refreshing finish.

Did you know?

The Ata Rangi Crimson Pinot Noir was named in support of Project Crimson, a charitable initiative aimed at replanting and preserving New Zealand’s native pōhutukawa and rātā trees. Founder Clive Paton has personally planted more than 75,000 trees as part of this effort, symbolizing the winery's deep connection to conservation and the land​.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Duck breast with cherry sauce: The wine’s red fruit flavors and fine tannins perfectly complement the rich, gamey flavors of duck.
• Grilled salmon: The fresh acidity and supple texture balance the fatty richness of salmon, enhancing the dish's flavors.
• Mushroom risotto: The savory notes of manuka smoke and prosciutto pair well with the earthy umami of mushroom-based dishes.
• Roasted pork tenderloin with herbs: The smooth tannins and subtle spice elements of the wine enhance the flavors of roasted pork, providing a harmonious pairing.

Ata Rangi is owned and run by Clive Paton and his wife Phyll, together with Clive’s sister Alison and winemaker Helen Masters. Clive planted the bare, stony home paddock at the edge of Martinborough in 1980 and, in doing so, was one of a handful of people who pioneered grape growing in the area. Ata Rangi’s first vineyard covered less than five hectares of thin, well-drained alluvial soil.

They are now according to UK winewriter Tim Atkin, "widely regarded as New Zealand’s top Pinot Noir producer".

Ata Rangi was recently given the title of "Tipuranga Teitei o Aotearoa" which translates from Maori as “Great Growth of New Zealand” or "Grand Cru" at the International Pinot Noir 2010 Conference. In presenting this inaugural award, Alastair Maling, MW and Chairman of Pinot Noir 2010, said: “The Tipuranga Teitei o Aotearoa award recognizes those who have taken time and shown skill and commitment in evolving and developing New Zealand Pinot Noir.

Ata Rangi is widely considered to be a "Premier Producer of Pinot Noir"; the top echelon and an inspiration to the rest of the industry. This award is a uniquely New Zealand one, combining terroir with winemaking philosophy and consistent quality. It can only be achieved with vine age, proven wine quality, authenticity and undoubted global recognition.