| Varietal | Region | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Pinot Noir | Martinborough | Smooth Medium-Bodied Red |
Exuberant red plum and cherry flavors define this satiny Pinot Noir, accented with savory notes of grilled meat and forest floor. Silky in texture and generously flavored, the wine finishes in a long aftertaste of red berries and cinnamon spice.
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This exceptional Pinot Noir comes from New Zealand, a country whose claim to fame has been its Sauvignon Blanc but that is increasingly winning respect for Pinot Noir. Although Martinborough Vineyard makes some of the country's most expensive Pinot, it also offers this well-priced bottling from its Burnt Spur Vineyard, located near the town of Martinborough. A single-vineyard, estate-bottled Pinot Noir at this price is a rarity and explains why the Russian Jack impressed us during our tastings. Located on the chilly, rainy North Island, Martinborough lies in a sheltered valley that is protected from ocean-driven rains by coastal mountains. Unusually dry and sunny autumns are perfect for ripening grapes, yielding Pinot Noir that is deliciously poised between tangy and sweet. Founded in 1980, Martinborough Vineyard was one of the first wineries in the Wairarapa District. Winemaker Paul Mason is a native New Zealander whose experience spans the globe, from Italy and the United States to Chile and, back home, at the renowned New Zealand winery of Villa Maria.
Bright black cherry and cranberry scents are edged with a note of rose petals plus a hint of vanilla oak.
Exuberant red plum and cherry flavors define this satiny Pinot Noir, accented with savory notes of grilled meat and forest floor. Silky in texture and generously flavored, the wine finishes in a long aftertaste of red berries and cinnamon spice.
Thanks to its tender tannins and high acidity, the Russian Jack Pinot Noir is excellent alongside poultry, duck and dark-fleshed fish like tuna and salmon. Dishes like roasted chicken thighs, grilled tuna and cedar-planked salmon will match this wine's medium body and concentration. For flavorings, mushrooms and fresh green herbs are delicious with young New World Pinots like the Russian Jack. This red's acidity and hints of spice make it a great companion to mildly spicy dishes that incorporate seasonings such as cinnamon, cloves, peppercorns or cumin.
Serve a little cooler than room temperature: refrigerate the bottle for 15 minutes before serving.