The 2013 Churton Pinot Noir from Marlborough, New Zealand, is an organically certified, biodynamically farmed wine produced by Churton Wines, owned by Sam and Mandy Weaver. Crafted from grapes grown on their hillside vineyard in the Waihopai Valley, this wine reflects a European-inspired approach with close vine spacing and high density (approximately 5,000 vines/ha). The 2013 vintage experienced a cooler-than-normal spring, resulting in low bud numbers and crop levels, followed by a fantastic summer and a long autumn with fine days and cool nights. Harvest occurred between March 28 and April 2, yielding small berries with superb intensity and phenolic ripeness at a low yield of 22 hl/ha. The wine is full-flavored, showcasing masses of black cherry and raspberry fruit with a spicy character, complex palate, soft fine tannins, and a persistent finish. It features a deep garnet color, with aromas of plum, cherry, damp earth, leafy briar, mint, and floral rose-like notes. The palate is supple, medium-bodied, with fresh cherry acidity, spicy berries, and a touch of liquorice for structure.
Food Pairings
The 2013 Churton Pinot Noir’s bright acidity, moderate tannins, and complex flavor profile make it highly versatile for food pairings. Recommended pairings include:
- Poultry: Duck or turkey, which complement the wine’s fruit and spice notes.
- Pork: Enhances the wine’s savory and earthy elements.
- Grilled Vegetables: Pairs well with the wine’s freshness and minerality.
- Meaty Fish: Salmon or tuna, which match the wine’s medium body and fruit intensity.
- Blue Cheeses: Strong blue cheeses, such as those suggested for Churton’s Natural State Pinot Noir, work with the wine’s complexity.
- Pate or Tarte Tatin: These richer dishes balance the wine’s silky tannins and fruit-driven finish.
Critics Reviews
- Bob Campbell MW, Gourmet Traveller (Feb/March 2015): “An organic and biodynamic pinot noir with pleasing density of red and dark fruit flavours. A complex and concentrated wine with impressive power and richness. It is nicely structured with good cellaring potential. A highly individual pinot.” 95 points.
- Anonymous Critic (2013 Vintage): “English-born Sam Weaver specialises in Pinot at one of Marlborough’s top estates. Farmed biodynamically, the wine is aged 14 months in French oak, around 18% of which is new. This has a deep garnet colour and a very engaging nose, with a gentle damp earth character and leafy briar over plum and cherry fruit, a touch of mint and something floral and rose-like in the background. In the mouth there is a supple, medium-bodied lithe appeal, very good freshness with a bite of cherry acidity, and a smooth, well-proportioned mid-palate where spicy berries and a touch of firm endive or liquorice add structure. This feels like a Pinot that, whilst elegant and unforced, has the structure and gravitas to age a few years too. 92 points.”
Drink Window
The 2013 Churton Pinot Noir is noted for its cellaring potential due to its structure and balance. Critics suggest it can be enjoyed now with a meal and has the potential to develop further, with a recommended drink window extending to around 2021–2023. The wine’s fresh acidity and fine tannins support its ability to age gracefully for a few years beyond its vintage.
Notes
- The 2013 vintage is described as an excellent one due to favorable weather conditions, resulting in concentrated fruit and balanced structure.
- Churton’s biodynamic and organic practices enhance the wine’s expression of terroir, making it a standout for those seeking New World Pinot Noir with Old World finesse.
