Auckland Herald :  "A mixture of site and vineyard management has resulted in a Pinot at just 12.2% that’s tangy and savoury, with a bright core of red fruit. It’s at the opposite end of the spectrum to some of the over–ripe Pinots around." Aug 2007

Winery:  "A complex silky wine that shows intense but delicate and perfumed black cherry fruit, earth and spice, The wine is full flavoured with a clean freshness and fine grained tannins with a long finish of earthy savouryness."

Wired For Wine:  The full-flavored complexity of this Churton gem makes it a real standout among Pinots.  It goes beautifully with chicken, duck and salmon, as well as veal chops, lean beef and lamb.  What's your pleasure?  The earthy side of this savory wine makes it a natural with a starter of grilled portobello, arugula and shaved Parmigiano-reggiano salad, or baby beets,arugula and goat cheese.  For an entree, simple pan-roasted chicken with Swiss chard and feta crostinis will compliment the clean freshness of the Churton like a pro.  Grilled salmon with wild rice and a roasted red pepper vinaigrette will pick up on this Pinot's spicy side very nicely.  Another terrific option is a classic grilled veal chop sprinkled with sea salt, served with oven-roasted plum tomatoes.  A great finish to the meal is a semi-firm Portuguese  Amarelo cheese.  It's made with sheep and goat milk, and has a lovely tangy flavor with a gentle hint of bitterness at the finish which is perfect for showcasing the spicy side of this intense yet silky Pinot.  When do we eat??

Size:  750ml
Vintage:  2005
Varietal:  Pinot Noir
Ageing:  14 months French oak barrels
Alcohol:  12.4%
Region:  Waihopai Valley, Marlborough, New Zealand
Production:  945 dozen