New Zealand's finest
Pinot Noir
The red wine that us kiwis can't seem to get enough of and a notoriously fickle grape to grow, but at the hands of a master, can be turned into wines that are delicious, fruity and endlessly expressive.
The real beauty of Pinot Noir from New Zealand regions are the depths of complexity they achieve, meaning not only do these wines age well, but as they do, they develop a whole array of secondary flavours and characteristics that morph them into more savoury realms.
The high diurnal temperature range of the deep south suits this grape by providing perfect ripening conditions during the warm summer days but cool nights help to preserve and capture the pureness of those flavours to be harnessed in the resulting wines.
Food Match
Pinot Noir and slow-cooked lamb shanks with rosemary and garlic
New Zealand Pinot Noir, particularly from regions like Central Otago, Martinborough and Marlborough, are known for its vibrant red fruit flavours, silky tannins and earthy undertones. These characteristics make it a perfect match for slow-cooked lamb shanks - an indulgent dish that’s packed with rich, savoury flavours and fall off the bone tenderness.
Why Pinot works with lamb shanks:
Warming pairing for Winter
The delicate yet structured profile of Pinot Noir balanced the richness of braised lamb shanks. Its bright acidity cuts through the dish's deep, slow cooked flavours while its berry and herbal notes compliment the garlic, rosemary and tomato based sauce. The subtle tannins of pinot noir ensure that the fish remains the start without overpowering it.
Serving and enjoying:
For the perfect pairing, choose a silky, fruit-forward Pinot Noir from Ata Rangi or Two Paddocks. The wines balanced acidity and savoury complexity will enhance the dish’s slow cooked richness, making every bite even more satisfying.
There's nothing quite like the aroma of slow cooked lamb filling the house on a cold winter night. Paired with a beautifully structured Pinot Noir, this dish is the ultimate expression of kiwi winter comfort - effortlessly elegant yet deeply satisfying.
Top Picks
Top 3 Pinot Noir to match:
Ata Rangi Pinot Noir
Aromas of dark berry fruits, cherry, thyme and mulberry and present on the nose.
The beautiful aromas lead into a slight savoury and burnt orange palate. Flavours combine creating fine tannins and sustaining a beautiful finish. A truly delightful Pinot!
Ata Mara Pinot Noir
The Ata Mara Pinot has a nose that is loaded with nicely ripe red fruits, poached red-flesh plums and mocha with a lovely sweet herb lift to finish. This Pinot has a pencil-box oak and smoky spice touch to start. The palate delivers a surprisingly plush entry with long grainy tannins that really hang, giving excellent length of flavour and a pleasant, savoury spice finish.
Quartz Reef Single Vineyard Pinot Noir
An enticing drop that will have you grabbing for that next glass, enjoy this Pinot Noir from Bendigo that is filled with delicate notes and seamlessly blended fruit and tannins. Dark cherry mixed with sweet-tart flavours will take you on a journey.
