Neck of the Woods "Master Abel" Pinot Noir 2019

We’re inspired by pioneers. By those who aren’t afraid to take risks and do things differently. Who stay true to what they believe. Neck of the Woods dedicate every one of their vintages to a groundbreaking, rule-defying character that followed their passion and forged their own path.

Back in the 70s, a crafty Kiwi traveller returning from France tried to smuggle in a small cutting of vine. Tucked in his gumboot of all places. Sadly for him, an eager customs officer (and aspiring wine maker) named Malcom Abel confiscated it.

The cutting had been stolen from the holy grail of Pinot – Domaine de la Romanée-Conti in Burgundy. Abel recognised its significance right away and paid for it to be put through quarantine. A few months later, the cutting was released. Abel planted his prized Pinot clone, and died shortly after. But his legend lives on. The Abel clone, or the gumboot clone as it’s affectionally known, now makes up a large portion of New Zealand’s Pinot Noir.

This Pinot Noir owes its very existence to Malcom Abel. We are inspired by his willingness to go his own way and take a risk for the sake of making his dream a reality.

This sexy, understated wine exudes elegance with persistent bright red fruit. As it says on the label "this is not mass produced s**t"

The hand harvested fruit was picked from each vineyard at optimal ripeness which occurred on average one month earlier than normal in 2018. The wine spent 11 months in oak barrels.

Aromas of plum, dark cherry, red licorice and rosemary on the nose with the addition of raspberry and cassis on the palate. This sexy, understated wine exudes elegance with persistent bright red fruit, fine tannins and enduring freshness. The athletic frame speaks of its “classic” Bendigo origins, yet it’s supple and graceful side show a character less often found in the sub-region. It’s class in a glass!