Wines From Martinborough New Zealand
Thinking People, Thoughtful Wines

Martinborough Pinot Takes Top Trophy

Congratulations to  Julicher Estate, whose Julicher Pinot Noir 2008 beat 300 entries to win the Champion Pinot Noir and then swept to the ultimate prize:  Champion Wine of the Show Trophy at the Air New Zealand Wine Awards announced late last month. It was described by the judges as “a true example of New Zealand Pinot Noir at its best.” 

An elated Wim Julicher, owner of Julicher Estate in Martinborough, believes in “putting ourselves and our wine on the line” by entering significant wine shows. The estate’s 99 Rows Te Muna Road Pinot Noir 2008 was also awarded an Elite Gold, signifying “outstanding quality”, scoring 19+ put of 20 points.

“Martinborough is a great place for top pinot noir; it’s why we chose this district.  2008 is only our seventh vintage, so our combination of river terrace site, good fruit, hard work and a good winemaker has well and truly proved itself.

“2008 was a good season: not a big crop but excellent fruit, perfect conditions at harvest and winemaker Outi Jakovirta did a superb job to produce two gold medal wines,” he said.  The wines are available in Auckland and Wellington restaurants, and selected wine stores.
 
Chair of judges Steve Smith (MW) said Pinot Noir was one of the standout varietals of this year’s competition, and it was fitting that this varietal claimed the top trophy.

 “The Julicher Pinot Noir 2008 featured a deep brooding black cherry colour, dusty plum and autumn forests on the nose.  The top trophy is truly deserved,” he concluded.

In congratulating Julicher Estate on their achievement, Wines From Martinborough General Manager Rachael Fletcher said the award consolidates Martinborough’s reputation as a premium boutique wine district, with an outstanding track record for pinot noir in particular.

“In the last two months Martinborough pinot noir wines have taken top trophies at two other significant wine shows” she advised.   Burnt Spur Pinot Noir 2007 received the Pinot Noir Trophy at the 2009 New Zealand International Wine Show.  The Martinborough Vineyard Pinot Noir 2007 won the Pinot Noir Trophy for the Tri Nations Challenge in Sydney.