Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir – Marlborough

About the product

Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir 2023 shows a different side of Marlborough than the region's famous Sauvignon Blanc. The focus here is on Pinot Noir from the cooler, clay-rich soils of the Southern Valleys, where the grape thrives particularly well.

The grapes come from north-facing slopes and selected vineyards, including Mustang, Delta, and Barracks. The soil consists of older alluvial deposits combined with heavy clay in the subsoil, which provides a good balance between drainage and water supply for the vines.

After harvest, the grapes are destemmed and fermented in open-top fermenters using naturally occurring yeast. A small proportion of whole clusters is included in the vinification to add extra structure and complexity. After pressing, the wine matures for 11 months in French oak barrels.

The result is a Pinot Noir with Cloudy Bay’s characteristic silky elegance – aromatic and fruit-driven, yet precise and structured. The 2023 vintage has an alcohol content of 13.5%.

About Marlborough

Marlborough is located on the northeastern part of New Zealand's South Island and is the country’s most internationally renowned wine region. The area is primarily associated with Sauvignon Blanc, but the cooler parts of Marlborough have also proven extremely suitable for Pinot Noir.

Cloudy Bay's Pinot Noir comes mainly from the Southern Valleys south of the Wairau Valley. Here, the soil differs from the more gravel-dominated areas further north. The clay-rich soils and the relatively cool climate allow Pinot Noir to ripen slowly and develop aromatic intensity, fresh acidity, and fine tannins.

The combination of many sunshine hours and a maritime climate helps create the fruity and elegant Pinot Noir style for which Marlborough has become increasingly known.

About Cloudy Bay

Cloudy Bay was founded in Marlborough in 1985 and has had a major impact on New Zealand’s international reputation as a wine-producing country. The estate became famous in particular for its Sauvignon Blanc, but Pinot Noir has been an important part of their work for decades.

The first Pinot Noir vines were planted in 1989, and the first vintage of Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir was released in 1994. From the beginning, the goal has been to produce an elegant, silky, and gastronomic Pinot Noir where the terroir of Marlborough is allowed to stand out clearly.

Taste

Nose: Beautifully aromatic with strawberries and cherries accompanied by fine nuances of vanilla and light toast.

Taste: Fresh, concentrated, and silky with ripe plums, strawberries, and cherries. A lively redcurrant-like acidity provides energy and precision, while fine tannins create an elegant structure.

Finish: Long and harmonious with lingering red fruit, subtle spices, and elegant oak notes. The freshness gives the wine a clean and appetizing finish.

Serving and storage

Cloudy Bay recommends serving 2023 Pinot Noir at 12-15°C. The wine should be served slightly cooler than many heavier red wines.

We recommend using a large Burgundy or Pinot Noir glass. The wine can be enjoyed now, but the producer indicates a cellaring potential of approximately 5-10 years, during which it can gradually develop more complex and mature aromas.

Food pairing

2023 Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir is a very versatile food wine and goes particularly well with:

• Duck, rabbit, and other light game
• Lamb and veal
• Grilled meat and barbecue
• Oven-baked mushrooms and grilled vegetables
• Charcuterie and mild to medium-bodied cheeses

FAQ

What grape is Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir 2023 made from?
The wine is made from Pinot Noir from selected vineyards in Marlborough's Southern Valleys on New Zealand's South Island.

How does Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir 2023 taste?
The wine has aromas of strawberries and cherries with nuances of vanilla and toast. The taste offers ripe plums, strawberries, and cherries combined with fresh acidity and elegant tannins.

Is Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir barrel-aged?
Yes. After fermentation, the wine matures for 11 months in French oak barrels, which contribute structure and subtle nuances of vanilla and toast.

Where do the grapes come from?
The grapes come from the Southern Valleys in Marlborough. Among the most important vineyards are Mustang, Delta, and Barracks.

What does Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir pair with?
It pairs particularly well with duck, rabbit, lamb, grilled dishes, mushrooms, and oven-baked vegetables. Its elegant structure makes it a very versatile food wine.

What temperature should Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir be served at?
The producer recommends a serving temperature of approximately 12-15°C.

Can Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir 2023 be stored?
Yes. The wine can be enjoyed now, but Cloudy Bay indicates a cellaring potential of about 5-10 years under good storage conditions.