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Anthony Gismondi on Wine
Martin's Lane Naramata Ranch Vineyard Pinot Noirtext
96POINTS
18½/20

Martin's Lane Naramata Ranch Vineyard Pinot Noir 2020

Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe first Naramata Ranch pinot vines were planted in the early 2000s, followed by several more blocks added at different elevations and expositions over the next decade. It is an amazing mix of sites and mesoclimates, depending on the exposition and proximity to Okanagan Lake. Four clones are in the ground: Pommard, 943, 828, and 667. Two distinct vineyard parcels collide at 49.67˚N, combining Dijon clones 667 and 943, revealing a geologically diverse universe at the Northern end of the Naramata Bench as the land rises up into the mountainside. That said, this may be the best wine Munn has made at Martin’s Lane, coming off a concrete fermentation containing 65 percent whole cluster bunches, a technique he uses to control the tannin in the wine while building complexity and structure. It is a mid valley pinot grown at 410 to 500 metres above sea level that comes with a little more gravitas than its northern brethren. The clones were co-fermented over 26 days and spent almost a year and a half in extra tight grain French and Austrian oak. The nose is highly perfumed, and the flavours of a complex mix of black cherries and savoury, spicy licorice, together in a storm of umami. This is pure, complex, elegant, silky pinot to drink through 2028 and beyond. The vines are certified organic at 12.7 percent alcohol.Tasted: 13 August 2023Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:
BC$100.00750mlwinery online/direct
Producer: Martin's Lane WineryDistributors: Mark Anthony Wines and Spirits
Grape: Pinot NoirCSPC: 051116UPC: 776545994035