Ant Moore A+ Pinot Noir 2020

Region: Marlborough, New Zealand

Grape: Pinot Noir

Vineyard Practice: Sustainable

Culinary Suggestions: Grilled Quail, Peking Duck Pancakes, Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin

Alcohol: 12.5%

Bottle Size: 750ml

Short Summary 

The 2020 Ant Moore A+ Pinot Noir captures the essence of Marlborough's cool-climate terroir, offering a vibrant and elegant expression of this iconic variety. With its fine balance of fruit intensity, subtle oak influence, and silky tannins, this Pinot Noir is both approachable and refined.

Overview

Ant Moore Wines is a dynamic, independent winery located in Marlborough, New Zealand, founded by Australian-born winemaker Anthony “Ant” Moore. After relocating to New Zealand in 2002, Moore immersed himself in the region's wine industry, gaining experience at notable estates like Isabel Estate and founding successful brands such as Catalina Sounds and Crowded House. In 2006, he established his own winery, transforming bare land into productive vineyards and building a facility from the ground up .

Today, Ant Moore Wines manages approximately 195 hectares of vineyards across Marlborough's diverse sub-regions, including the Awatere, Waihopai, and Wairau Valleys. This geographical diversity allows the winery to craft wines that showcase the unique terroirs of the region . The winery emphasizes a holistic and sustainable approach to viticulture, incorporating practices like grazing sheep in the vineyards to reduce the need for pesticides and herbicides.

Ant Moore is known for its innovative winemaking techniques, including the use of wild ferments and minimal intervention methods. The winery produces a range of varietals, with a particular focus on Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Riesling. Their wines are recognized for their vibrant fruit profiles, complexity, and approachability.

The A+ Pinot Noir was crafted to reflect the unique characteristics of Marlborough's diverse sub-regions. The 2020 vintage benefited from favourable growing conditions, resulting in fruit of exceptional quality. The wine showcases the region's ability to produce Pinot Noirs with both elegance and depth.

The A+ range is designed to offer wines that are expressive and true to their varietal character, with a focus on balance and drinkability. The 2020 Pinot Noir exemplifies this philosophy, delivering a wine that is both complex and accessible.

Cork Tasting Notes

The 2020 Ant Moore A+ Pinot Noir presents aromas of cooked cherry and red fruit, complemented by notes of cedar and chocolate. Hints of leather round out the generous mid-palate, adding complexity and depth. On the palate, the wine is silky and round, with a balance of fruit intensity and subtle oak influence. The finish is smooth and lingering, making it an excellent companion to a variety of dishes.

This vintage not only showcases the potential of Marlborough's terroir but also reinforces Ant Moore's commitment to producing wines of exceptional calibre. The 2020 A+ Pinot Noir is a testament to the region's ability to craft Pinot Noirs that are both expressive and refined.