Wines Marlborough Fromm - Pinot Noir The Curation - 2020

Viniou Reviews

The Fromm Cuvée Pinot Noir The Curation 2020 from Marlborough, New Zealand, is a remarkable expression of both terroir and the winemaker’s skill. Crafted entirely from Pinot Noir, this cuvée highlights the variety’s elegance, balance, and depth as interpreted through the specific vineyards Fromm selects. The 2020 vintage benefited from a long, moderate growing season, resulting in grapes with excellent ripeness and concentration. The vinification favours gentle extraction and minimal intervention, often involving a combination of whole-bunch fermentation and maturation in French oak barrels, which brings subtle structure and complexity to the wine without overwhelming the purity of fruit.

Marlborough has earned its international reputation not only for Sauvignon Blanc but increasingly for Pinot Noir, particularly when handled by dedicated producers such as Fromm. The region enjoys a cool, maritime climate, with significant diurnal temperature variation that allows for the slow ripening of grapes, retaining vibrancy and freshness. The soils tend to be composed of stony, well-drained gravels with some clay, providing an excellent base for Pinot Noir vines to produce wines of clarity and finesse. Marlborough’s winemaking history is relatively young but distinguished by rapid innovation and a focus on sustainable, high-quality viticulture, attracting talented producers from around the world.

This Pinot Noir’s graceful red and dark fruit aromas, complemented by hints of earth and subtle spice, open up myriad possibilities at the table. It is particularly well matched with game birds like duck or quail, earthy mushroom dishes, or a classic lamb rack, ideally sourced locally to echo the wine’s sense of place. For a regional pairing, consider pairing it with a venison loin accompanied by kumara (sweet potato) purée, a nod to local New Zealand produce.

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Fromm Cuvée Pinot Noir The Curation 2020 at a temperature of 15-17°C. Decanting for 30 minutes will help the wine’s nuances unfold in the glass, allowing you to fully appreciate its complexity and balance. This is a wine equally suited for special occasions or enjoying with thoughtful food and good company.