This is as elegant as the label suggests. There’s pretty, fragrant fruit aromatics and a hint of earthy undergrowth. The structure is fineboned and unforced. Just our kind of Pinot. Low yielding, hand picked clone 777 Marlborough fruit was fermented with 10% whole bunches. It was aged in seasoned oak for 10 months.

Marathon Downs is a station in the Awatere Valley that’s been in the hands of Jess Barnes’ family since being drawn from the ballot. Of the 400 hectares, 38 are planted with vines. Jess and her partner Nick Pett are bloody delightful people, and they apply the extensive experience and talent they’ve gained working with other producers to great effect. The wines are stylish and playful but precise.