2012 The Ned "Southern Valleys" Pinot Noir Marlborough

2012 was a "classic" cool-climate Marlborough vintage, say the folks at Marisco Vineyards. They've been getting attention for "The Ned" Pinot Noir in the Decanter Wine Awards 2012, praise in the Guardian UK and the Independent, Wine Advocate and Jancis Robinson for past vintages. The new release displays rose and violet notes, according to the winery's tasting note, complemented by black currant, plum and cherry: "Supporting these attractive primary aromatics are signature Pinot leaf mulch savoury elements and oak derived spice with mocha characters. Concentrated flavours of dark berry fruits are underpinned by brambly, spicy notes." Nice foil for oven-roasted beets, duck, or even pizza with goat cheese--at a nice price for scarce New Zealand Pinot Noir.