The 2024 Ata Rangi McCrone Single Vineyard Pinot Noir is one of the flagship wines of the Ata Rangi portfolio, sourced from the organically farmed McCrone Vineyard, located just 400 metres from the winery in Martinborough. Planted on a distinctive mix of clay and alluvial gravel soils, the vineyard consistently produces the most powerful and structured Pinot Noir in the Ata Rangi single-vineyard range. The 2024 vintage is another outstanding release, reflecting the exceptional growing season and the unique personality of this remarkable site.
The nose is deep and complex, revealing forest berries, sour cherry, red liquorice and crushed rock layered with wild herbs, dried spices and subtle savoury notes. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with velvety texture, fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity. Dark cherry, cranberry and plum are framed by ferrous minerality and a long, structured finish, giving the wine both immediate appeal and exceptional cellaring potential.
The 2024 release has received outstanding critical acclaim, including 98 points from James Suckling, 96 points from Stephen Wong MW and 94 points from Halliday Wine Companion, with reviewers praising its balance of ripe fruit, mineral tension and muscular elegance.
Ben's Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, McCrone is the most powerful and age-worthy of Ata Rangi's single-vineyard Pinot Noirs. Compared to Kotinga, it is darker-fruited and more structured; compared to Masters, it offers greater concentration and earthy depth while retaining Martinborough's hallmark freshness and precision. The exceptional 2024 vintage delivers remarkable intensity without sacrificing elegance, making this a superb collector's Pinot Noir with outstanding ageing potential. Drink from 2028 onwards or cellar comfortably for 15–20+ years. Perfect with duck, venison, lamb, wild mushrooms and refined modern cuisine.
