Villa Maria sources grapes from New Zealand’s premium grape growing regions, including Marlborough and Hawkes Bay, and produces wines in state-of-the-art winemaking facilities in Auckland and Marlborough. The winery Sir George Fistonich started in 1961 is still family owned and stands as an icon of superior quality and innovation in New Zealand winemaking. Villa Maria was also the first wine company in New Zealand to declare the winery a “cork-free zone,” sealing all wines from the 2001 vintage onwards with a screw cap to ensure quality in every bottle. Dedicated to minimizing environmental impact, Villa Maria has pioneered sustainable viticulture and winemaking since the 1990s, and is one of the very few wineries that have acquired four certifications as proof of the on-going commitment. Respected global beverage journal Drinks International has named Villa Maria as New Zealand’s Most Admired Wine Brand from 2015 to 2019 for consistently outstanding focus on quality.

Aging Regimen: 14 months in 30% new French oak barriques. 9 months in settling in tank

Tasting Notes: an intense bouquet of ripe juicy raspberries and blueberries with hints of baking spices. A harmonious palate delivers mocha notes intermingled with red cherries, subtle dried herbs and finishes with velvety smooth tannins.

Suitable for vegans

Varietal: Pinot Noir

Region: Marlborough, New Zealand