I’ve been eagerly waiting for this wine to be released by Stephen and Hugh at Eureka Wines here in Marlborough… I was privy to their idea for a Dessert Pinot Noir a while ago and have just had my first taste – quite lovely and a surprising change from the range of late harvest, sticky and noble Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc on the market at present. Not to say I don’t like Stickies as such – I most certainly do, but this is such a surprise being made from Pinot Noir and by the Straw Wine method.

Stephen and Hugh of Eureka Wines are outstanding in their field – way beyond the Left Field in fact. They are innovative boutique producers, creating unique hand-crafted small parcel wines that have individual points of difference. As the world is awash with Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, they have gone in the opposite direction stylistically, focusing on aromatic varieties and dessert wines. Gewurztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc, Straw Sav Blanc, Late Harvest Pinot Gris and now Pinot Noir “Straw Wine Style!”

This Dessert Pinot is the latest from their portfolio and sits nicely alongside their Straw Wine Sauvignon Blanc and Late Harvest Pinot Gris… “Straw Wine” is made by hand-selecting the best bunches of grapes at normal ripeness, to capture the natural acidity and aromas, in the case clone 6 Pinot Noir. The bunches are laid out on beds of straw in a greenhouse for around 4 weeks where they dehydrate and concentrate the natural sugars and flavours. Only made in tiny quantities – I think Stephen said only one barrel made!

Eureka Straw Wine Pinot Noir Marlborough NZ 2012
In the glass a gorgeous cherry red colour with some, slightly bricky notes. Dark cherry, strawberry and spice in the nose, and it surprised me on the palate as although over 200 g/l R/S (correct me if I’m wrong Hugh) has enough fruit concentration to not be cloying. Port-like characters with out the alcohol heat on the palate with sweet smoky-cherry and fine acidity, a tiny touch of oak and a long delicious finish! An alternative to a port after dinner!
375 ml Alc/Vol 10% RRP about $40.00

To find out more about Straw Wine and about the guys at Eureka, visit their Facebook Page or visit them at the Marlborough Farmer’s Market in Blenheim each Sunday where you can have a taste and buy a bottle of this and all their other wines… I can’t wait to see what they come up with next! Cheer, Stephen & Hugh!