Momo Pinot Noir 2023

Located in the Marlborough region, at the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island, the Seresin Estate vineyard benefits from a cool maritime climate, marked by significant temperature variations between day and night. The vines for the Momo Pinot Noir cuvée are primarily planted on well-drained alluvial and silty-clay soils, originating from ancient river deposits. The moderating influence of Cloudy Bay and the cool winds from the Pacific Ocean promote slow ripening, preserving the aromatic freshness and natural balance of the grapes.

The Pinot Noir grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness, then destemmed before a cold pre-fermentation maceration. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks with indigenous yeasts, accompanied by gentle pump-overs and punch-downs to extract color and fine tannins. After devatting, the wine is transferred to mostly old French oak barrels for aging on lees with occasional bâtonnage, aiming to preserve the fruit while adding complexity and texture, before a final blending and bottling without excessive filtration.

This wine reveals notes of red cherry, raspberry, and plum, complemented by floral touches evoking violet and peony, as well as spicy nuances of sweet pepper and clove. Subtle woody accents of toasted oak and smoky notes add complexity. On the palate, the texture is supple and silky, supported by a fresh acidity, fine tannins, and an elegant, slightly mineral and persistent finish.

Introduced in 1819, viticulture was greatly developed by Jean-Baptiste Pompallier, a French Marist missionary. Sent to Oceania in 1837, he settled there in January 1838 to develop New Zealand's vineyards. The first quality vineyards were established in the Hawke's Bay region during the 19th and early 20th centuries. After production setbacks initially caused by phylloxera and then the First World War, the vineyards began to expand again during the Second World War, doubling in size. Today, New Zealand has 10 major wine regions spread across the North and South Islands, the largest of which is Marlborough. Most of New Zealand's wine regions have a maritime climate. The country's long, narrow shape means that vineyards are never more than 120 km from the coast, and most are even much closer (with the exception of the semi-continental region of Central Otago). A mountain spine running through the center of the country protects most of the major wine regions from the strong westerly winds from the Tasman Sea known as the "Roaring Forties." Because of these winds, there are few wine regions on New Zealand's west coast. The quality and reputation of New Zealand wines are well established. Indeed, the country produces some of the best and most renowned Sauvignon Blanc in the world. And it's no coincidence that New Zealand has managed to make Sauvignon Blanc its symbol, alongside its sheep, kiwifruit, and the legendary haka!