Nautilus Estate in Marlborough is part of a group known as the Family of XII (twelve), a banding together of family owned New Zealand wineries. This wine proof that Marlborough does more than just Sauvignon Blanc. Winemaker is Clive Jones.
Nautilus, Southern Valleys, Pinot Noir, Marlborough, 2016
Smoke and crispy bacon dominate the nose before fine black cherry and stalky spice. Muscular, yet lithe palate. Has confidence, an animal that stands with ears pricked. Fruit leans to black cherry yet with a distinct woody vein. The tannins knotty and blanketing. A finish of savoury, salty elements threaten to make this chunky and overt: they retreat at just the right moment.
RRP: around $40
Alc: 13.5%
Rating: 18/20
Wine sample courtesy of Nautilus Estate Wines
