The Wrekin Needle’s Eye Pinot Noir 2017 is a distinctive aged Pinot Noir from The Wrekin Vineyard, a small, family-run certified organic estate in the Southern Valleys of Marlborough, New Zealand that’s focused on low-intervention viticulture and expressing true vineyard character. The Wrekin sits on north-facing clay and greywacke soils, producing Pinot Noir with structure, purity and a strong sense of place. The 2017 Needle’s Eye was crafted from hand-harvested fruit and is representative of the vineyard’s varied blocks. With age in bottle it has moved beyond purely youthful fruit into more complex layers; early tasting notes highlight floral and spice-tinged aromatics with core dark cherry and plum fruit, hints of autumnal leaf and tea, and evolving savoury and leather nuances that complement the varietal character. Fine, chalky textured tannins and refreshing acidity add structure and mouthfeel, and the palate shows depth and complexity that continues to develop with cellaring. Best drinking is often noted from around 2025 through into the early 2030s. This wine pairs beautifully with richer red meat dishes such as roasted lamb, duck or venison, mushroom-based cuisine and hard cheeses, and benefits from decanting to showcase its layered aromas and long finish. Why we love this wine? This Pinot is a seamless fusion of elegant purity and terroir‑driven depth. “Flowers and tangerines with fresh strawberries and lavender. Medium body, bright acidity and a clean finish. Drink now. Screw cap.”– JAMES SUCKLING · 92 “A bouquet of pinosity and charm, floral highlight then core fruit flavours of dark cherry and plum, autumnal leaves, tea and baking spices. Fine chalky textured tannins and acidity deliver and textured palate with a chewy mouthfeel and spices then core fruit flavours that reflect the bouquet. There’s an unfiltered chalky quality adding complexity and mouthfeel, a wine that is delicious today and will continue to age and develop. Best drinking from 2025 through 2034 ” – CAM DOUGLAS · 95
