Brightwater Nelson Pinot Noir 2017

Gary and Valley Neale started planting vines in 1992, producing their first vintage in 1999 (they used to sell the grapes before that), and their success has been phenomenal. In 2012, at the prestigious Royal Easter Show, they were awarded Trophy for their top Chardonnay, overall Champion Wine of the Show and their winemaker, Tony Southgate, was named Winemaker of the Year.

They're situated in Nelson, just around the coast from more famous Marlborough, and handcraft tiny volume wines. Sunnier and warmer thanks to the curve of its hills, the region produces wines with impressive ripe fruit intensity. Whole bunch fermentation, gentle pressing and time in oak ensure pretty, floral, creamy berry notes. Ideal with chicken or mushroom croustade.