The 2021 Blank Canvas Settlement Vineyard Pinot Noir is a single-vineyard Pinot Noir from the Omaka Valley in Marlborough’s Southern Valleys, produced by winemaking duo Matt Thomson and Sophie Parker-Thomson MW. Sourced from a small north-facing parcel of Clone 777 Pinot Noir, the wine was crafted with around two-thirds whole bunch fermentation and matured in French oak, highlighting the vineyard’s unique combination of power, perfume and structure. It is widely regarded as one of the standout Pinot Noirs in the Blank Canvas portfolio.
The nose reveals red cherry, wild strawberry and plum layered with rose petal, spice, forest floor and subtle smoky notes. The palate is concentrated yet beautifully refined, with silky tannins, vibrant acidity and a savoury mineral edge that carries through a long, structured finish. Bob Campbell MW awarded the wine 95 points, while Cameron Douglas MS scored it 94 points, praising its energy, complexity and excellent cellaring potential.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A serious Marlborough Pinot Noir that combines Burgundian elegance with New Zealand’s trademark purity and vibrancy. Perfumed, layered and beautifully balanced, it pairs wonderfully with duck, roast quail, pork loin, mushroom dishes and game birds. Drinking beautifully with a decant, but it has the structure to evolve gracefully through 2032–2038.
