The Ned ′Southern Valleys′ Pinot Noir 2019/20, Marlborough

Marlborough Pinot Noir is a bit of an unsung gem. It’s often overshadowed by its regional sister, Sauvignon Blanc – but we think it’s fantastic if you love deeply fruity, silky reds. This is from the Southern Valleys, the prime spot for pernickety Pinot Noir which needs very specific soil and climate conditions to thrive. The grapes ripen slowly, developing really concentrated, berry-fruit flavours which are a trademark of the Marlborough style. Added to which, Brent Marris is the master of Marlborough – he knows how to get the very best out of his grapes in these famous valleys. It’s a real corker of the wine. Ripe. Juicy. Fruity. It’s full of raspberry, strawberry and red plum flavours, with a nicely savoury quality and silky texture. Perfect with slow-cooked beef ragu.

In 2022, this wine won an IWC award for the 2020 vintage.