The Ned Pinot Noir 2016 - Marlborough, New Zealand

ViticultureSourced from the renowned Ben Morven and Slopes vineyards, the 2015 vintage was naturally low yielding, with a long ripening period that has ensured optimal fruit expression and super supple tannin. Our Pinot Noir vines are planted in the deep clay loams of the Southern Valleys, universally regarded as the finest Pinot Noir terroir in Marlborough. The vines are cane pruned and meticulously tended to achieve a naturally balanced crop of intensely flavoured fruit.VintageHaving survived a string of spring frosts, the timing of budburst was nearly identical to last year though a subsequent cooling off meant early vine development wasn't quite as vigorous as seen previously. November was dry, with temperatures slightly above average. December bought with it a noticeable drop in temperature and just shy of 10mm of rain. This was to coincide with the critical stages of flowering and fruit set and goes some way to explain the lighter than usual 2015 yields. By Christmas the weather had begun to warm up and we hit a sustained patch of hot, dry weather that lasted through to the middle of March before the weather broke and the district finally got some rain.WinemakingIn the winery the fruit was completely de-stemmed, but not crushed, aiming for a significant percentage of intact berries in the ferment. Individual batches were macerated cold prior to a five day fermentation where the cap temperature was allowed to peak at between 30- 32°C. The wine remained on skins post fermentation to optimise tannin extraction whilst locking in the deep, ruby colour. Drained and pressed; this wine was then aged in mix of tank and French oak puncheons for nine months during which time it underwent a complete malo-lactic fermentation. A late summer bottling followed blending.ColourDark ruby red with a vibrant purple rim.AromaAn especially low yielding growing season has resulted in a Pinot Noir with exceptional fruit vibrancy and intensity reminiscent of herb infused red cherry and black berry fruits with a complimentary lick of smoky French oak.PalateThe palate further demonstrates the inherent qualities of a low yielding season with a saturated core of dark berry fruits encased in a firm but deliciously smooth tannin texture whilst bright focused acids brings these elements of fruit and tannin to life, enhancing mouthfeel, length and freshness.Food MatchingAn iconic Kiwi wine and food combo: The Ned Pinot Noir 2015 alongside a deliciously flaky lamb and rosemary pie.Cellaring PotentialWhilst dangerously drinkable on release this wine will become deeper, rounder and more complex with careful cellaring over the next five to seven years.

Wine of Marlborough, New Zealand

New Zealand

14

8.3

100% Pinot Noir

An especially low yielding growing season has resulted in a Pinot Noir with exceptional fruit vibrancy and intensity reminiscent of herb infused red cherry and black berry fruits with a complimentary lick of smoky French oak

Named after the tallest peak in the Wither Hills range - The Ned is an iconic symbol of Marlborough and therefore an appropriate brand name for one of New Zealand's fastest growing wine brands. Brent and Rosemary Marris founded Marisco Vineyards in 2003 and launched their new company with wine brand The Ned.

Set under the watchful eyes of the Southern Alps lie Marisco Vineyards, home of dynamic wine brand - THE NED. From this magnificent property come wines filled with fruit purity and brightness. Brent Marris, owner and chief winemaker, discovered the property which was once a cattle farm, Brent and his team have turned the 260ha into a wonderful vineyard on the banks of the Waihopai River. Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir are the 3 varieties that make up the Ned range - 3 of the varieties that Marlborough does best!

2016

In the winery the fruit was completely de-stemmed, but not crushed, aiming for a significant percentage of intact berries in the ferment.. The wine remained on skins post fermentation to optimise tannin extraction whilst locking in the deep, ruby colour. Drained and pressed; this wine was then aged in a mix of tank and French oak puncheons for nine months during which time it underwent a complete, natural malo-lactic fermentation.

Marisco Vineyards Ltd

Kingsland Drinks

Brent Marris

Dry