# Te Kairanga Pinot Noir (2022)

- **Producer:** Te Kairanga Wines
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** North Island, New Zealand
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Vegan:** No
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, red cherry, plum, cloves, vanilla, earth

## About this wine

Te Kairanga Pinot Noir 2022 is a red wine from the Martinborough sub-region of Wairarapa, New Zealand. Produced by Te Kairanga Wines, the grapes are sourced from their Home, McLeod, and Rua Vineyards, known for their gravelly alluvial soils and varied elevations. The winery emphasizes sustainable farming practices. Te Kairanga has a long history in Martinborough, with its vineyards situated on land originally belonging to the town's founder, John Martin. The estate is now owned by Foley Family Wines, with a focus on producing high-quality Pinot Noir.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyards are on land once owned by Martinborough's founder.
- Uses sustainable farming practices across all vineyards.
- Grapes are vinified block by block to highlight vineyard character.
- A portion of the wine ages in new French oak barrels.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and vibrant acidity complement fatty proteins like duck and lamb, cutting through richness. Its fruit-forward character and subtle spice notes pair well with earthy flavors found in mushrooms and game, while fine tannins provide structure for richer dishes.

## Wine making process

Te Kairanga Pinot Noir 2022 is produced using grapes harvested block by block from the producer's vineyards. The winemaking philosophy focuses on vineyard character, employing gentle techniques such as punch-downs and minimal intervention. Grapes are destemmed and vinified individually. The wine is aged for 10 months in French oak barrels, with 10% new oak. Minimal fining and filtration are used to preserve the wine's character. The 2022 vintage was marked by a compact growing season followed by wet weather during harvest.