2022 Escarpment 'Kupe' Pinot Noir Martinborough

Kupe is one of Escarpment’s single-vineyard Pinot Noirs, made from a small parcel on the Te Muna Road terraces in Martinborough. It’s a wine that shows the depth and structure this part of the Wairarapa can produce, with naturally low yields and a long growing season giving plenty of concentration while retaining freshness. As with Kiwa, the focus is very much on the vineyard, with careful winemaking allowing the fruit, texture and distinctive Martinborough character to come through.

The heavyweight of Escarpment's single vineyard wines. Concentrated but not heavy, with red and black cherry, plum, spice, herbs and an earthy savoury character. There is serious structure here, but also the freshness to carry it. 97 points from Decanter and 94+ from Wine Advocate – and one for the cellar if you have the patience.