Robert Parker, Jr., Wine Advocate:  Rated as An outstanding wine of exceptional complexity and character.  "The 2006 Te Muna Road Pinot Noir's palate displays very fine tannins with a touch of sous-bois and spice towards the plum finish.  The precocious Craggy Range has rapidly become one of New Zealand’s premier wine producers.  The state-of-the-art winery is modeled on futuristic architecture and is over-shadowed by the peaks that give rise to their name. The philosophy is firmly directed towards small production of single vineyard sites à la Burgundy."  Apr 2008

New York Times:  In a round-up of great New Zealand Pinot Noirs, Eric Asimov described this Pinot as delivering "Soft, complex flavors of dark fruit and chocolate."  Feb 2010

Winery:  "Bright ruby red in colour. Savoury spice notes are accented by perfumed aromas of violets, red cherry, blackberry and ruby grapefruit on the nose. Complex flavours of cherry, root spice, smoke and florals predominate the textural and creamy palate. The finish is long with red fruit and spice drawn out by the fine, silky tannin structure."

Wired For Wine:  Where to begin? How about the Dining  section of the New York Times  February 17th?  The "New Zealand Youths With Promise" article featured this very Craggy Range Pinot! The tasting panel felt that it is a "riper, fruitier" Pinot, with "soft, complex flavors of dark fruit and chocolate".  We say it will absolutely seduce you with its complexity and its excellent intensity, but the mouthwatering finish is what will really leave you begging for more.  The Craggy Range Te Muna Pinot has so many appealing facets that it will pair with a wide variety of foods.  What's your pleasure?  On the lighter side, chicken, salmon and pork loin are great options.  This Pinot can easily handle the heartier fare, so bring on the beef, lamb and game if you so desire.  Play up the delicious fruit of this wine and serve a pork loin glazed with pomegranate and orange.  The spice in this Craggy Range will shine with grilled salmon drizzled with your favorite Asian-style sweet-salty glaze.  The smoky oak and earthy undertones will be perfect for braised short ribs with lentils, or a rustic white lasagna with wild mushrooms.  While you consider the possibilities, we suggest a thick wedge of French Bucheron chevre cheese with simple crackers as you savor your first of (hopefully) many glasses of this ruby goddess.  Gorgeous!!

Size:  750ml
Vintage:  2006
Varietal:  100% Pinot Noir
Alcohol:  13.8%
Region:  Martinborough, New Zealand