The 2023 Blank Canvas Upton Downs Vineyard Pinot Noir is a single-vineyard Pinot Noir from the elevated Upper Awatere Valley, one of Marlborough’s coolest and driest subregions. Crafted by Matt Thomson and Sophie Parker-Thomson MW, the wine is sourced from a small parcel of Dijon Clone 777 planted on complex soils of clay, loam and gravel. Whole-bunch fermentation and restrained oak maturation highlight the vineyard’s naturally perfumed, finely structured character, resulting in one of the most elegant Pinot Noirs in the Blank Canvas portfolio.
The nose reveals violet, rose petal, wild strawberry and red cherry alongside hints of forest floor, dried herbs and spice. Silky and refined on the palate, it combines vibrant red fruit with fine tannins, bright acidity and a distinctive mineral edge. Cameron Douglas MS awarded the wine 96 points, while Bob Campbell MW also scored it 96 points, praising its elegance, perfume and remarkable length. James Suckling awarded 94 points, highlighting its freshness, concentration and fine structure.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A beautifully poised Pinot Noir that showcases the finesse and purity of the Upper Awatere Valley. Fragrant, mineral and effortlessly elegant, it pairs wonderfully with duck, roast quail, pork loin, mushroom dishes and game birds. Enjoy with a short decant now, or cellar through 2034–2037 as it develops greater complexity and savoury nuance.
