Matua Valley Marlborough Pinot Noir 2004

Matua means "foremost" in Maori language, the language of New Zealand locals. Fitting, because Matua Valley was the first New Zealand Winery to market a Sauvignon Blanc, which turned out to be a big deal. Not only have New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs changed the landscape of white wines worldwide, but the advancement of the Stelvin (screw cap) closure owes its credibility to the perceived innovative attitude of the New Zealand wine industry.

Begun in 1973 by brothers Bill and Ross Spence, Matua Valley is now owned by Beringer Blass Wine Estates, part of the Foster's Group. The Spences remain very involved, and Corey Hall and Joanne Gear form the Winemaking team.  Gear is focused on Marlborough*. Tasting Notes:  Matua Valley Marlborough Pinot Noir 2004 is bright cherry red transparent in the glass, with aromas of cherry, raspberry, sweet spice, plus hints of herbs, meat and pepper. Here is a light-middleweight Pinot Noir, with mild tannins. The herbal, meaty, somewhat peppery red fruit flavors are tart, and the finish is lean. Closure: Screw cap. Excellent value ($10) in a savory, somewhat rustic Pinot Noir.

*Marlborough is on the north end of the South Island of New Zealand, near Blenheim, and the source of a wealth of Sauvignon Blancs.