96 Points: 2020 Vintage - The Real Review | March 2022

---

2020 Escarpment Kupe Pinot Noir Marlborough – Over the last 35 years, Escarpment have created an expression of Martinborough Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris. Sculpted by Winemaker Tim Bourne and Viticulturist Rowan Hoskins from fruit entirely originating from Martinborough vineyards on the fabled alluvial gravels. They are focused on creating wines with an identifiable structure, complexity and fruit expression that reflect their distinctive sites and their regional Martinborough accent.

Kupe is made entirely from Escarpment’s home block first planted in 1999 on Te Muna Road. The alluvial gravels on the Martinborough Terrace provide a distinctive character that sets a benchmark for New Zealand Pinot Noir.

Crimson red with a dark core. A lifted aromatic and gorgeously opulent aroma that entices the Pinot Noir fan. Perfumed red and black fruits show deep red cherry, red currant, raspberry confit and ripe plum. It shows lifted spice and game together with floral notes of perfumed spring flowers and underlying dried porcini mushrooms. A firm tannin profile rounds out the opulent fruit profile to combine excellent texture and reward patience for cellaring up to 15 years. Match with roast meats, or traditional Christmas lunch with the trimmings. Serve at 16°C.