2020 Astrolabe Marlborough Pinot Noir 12 Pack

93 POINTS

Emma Jenkins MW - Decanter

This a textbook, elegant style of Marlborough Pinot, with pretty aromatics of cranberry, tobacco leaf, baking spice, red plum and cherry. The palate has layered fruit, nice flow, a touch of oak, moderate tannins and good carry. Fruit is drawn from across the region, including the Southern Valleys, Awatere and the tiny southern subregion of Kekerengu Coast. Winemaker Simon Waghorn is as passionate about Pinot Noir as he is about Marlborough, commenting: 'If you were only able to make one red wine, Pinot Noir would be the one you’d choose.'

93 POINTS

Christina Pickard - Wine Enthusiast

The 2020 Marlborough Pinots are just hitting their stride now, as this bottling deftly demonstrates. Bright aromas of raspberry and currant cordial—with toasted spice, graphite, chocolate and herbal nuances—open this mouthfilling, succulent Pinot. The vibrant red fruit, powerful, chalky tannins and crisp acidity add up to a wine that should shine beside a mushroom or seared pork dish.

92 POINTS

James Suckling

A pure and yummy pinot with sliced strawberry and strawberry pie as well as dried citrus. It’s medium-bodied with round and dusty tannins and a flavorful finish. Solid pinot. Drink and enjoy.

90 POINTS

Erin Larkin - Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The 2020 Marlborough Pinot Noir is a silky, supple little thing, with red apple skins, strawberry, red cherry and hints of exotic spice (sumac, nutmeg, cinnamon, etc.) on the palate. The finish is firm and a little chewy (not a pejorative comment), but what this offers is classy and complete. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

Rebecca Gibb MW - Vinous

Approachable, generous and sweetly fruited, the 2020 Pinot Noir Marlborough is a crowd-pleaser. It is sure to please with its juicy, fruity succulence and smooth, fine-grained tannins. Strawberry fruit flavors meet tea leaves and a subtle spice note on the medium-long finish. This is a good value Pinot, which is not something you say every day.