Who makes it?

The Vintage Widow is one of Jackson Estate’s Pinots. They have a wide range of wines, but they do have a focus on the Marlborough classics of sauvignon blanc and pinot noir. The Vintage Widows is a blend of named two vineyards – Gum Emperor and Somerset and Jackson Estate makes single vineyard versions of these.

The region’s warm days and cool, crisp nights means that Pinot noir is well suited to the region. Although, in the effort to provide enough Sauvignon Blanc to winelovers around the world, Pinot noir has been very much overshadowed. 

Finally, change is here and this grape is beginning to earn the respect it deserves. At last, it is becoming better known and there are some excellent producers of Marlborough Pinot.     

How do they make it?

The Jackson Estate Vintage Widow is a blend of clones. Each Pinot clone adding an unique quality to the finished wine. The grapes are fermented using indigenous yeasts and then matured in both new and older French oak barrels for around 12 months.

What does it taste like?

This wine has drippingly ripe cherry fruit, bolstered with sweet vanilla. This fruit is offset with a pinch of thyme and some earthy mushroom. The long supple finish shows some bright raspberry fruit as well. The medium bodied wine is dry, with pronounced perfume that translates to a vivacity of flavours. The silky tannins are smooth and adds a richness to underline that brightness. It is a rather irresistible combo after it has opened up.

What to drink with it?

It really doesn’t need food. However, it is a very versatile wine and is a good choice when you want a wine that is a bit special for dinner. Classic matches are, of course, duck, lamb and even a dark coloured fish with a spiced crust. There is also the option for matching with grilled and well-seasoned Mediterranean vegetables. Or a juicy burger with some sliced beetroot, or beetroot chutney.

Cheese

Try it with a bloomy cheese such as Brie, or comte, or just a nice chunk of cheddar. 

Quickie review « This Marlborough pinot is expressive and bright. It is smooth and fresh and ripe.  »

Country of Origin: Marlborough, New Zealand
Tasting Date: January 2021
Price:  UK £19 |NZD$40  
Drink: now – 5+ year
Needs food: no
Source: purchase

Like the sound of this Jackson Estate Vintage Widow Pinot Noir, you might like the
Jackson Estate Homestead Pinot Noir

Visit Jackson Estate for more information.