2001 Ata Rangi Pinot Noir. Martinborough, New Zealand. 14% alcohol. $45.
Medium violet red. A big nose of sweet oak, plum, vanilla, some spice, chocolate, and smoke. Fruit is very primary at present. Moderate tannin and acidity. Good length on the finish with fruit and oak churning through to the end. The wine completely went through malo and was aged for 12 months in French oak (25% new). A blend of Abel, Clone 5, 10/5 and Dijon clones. Drink 2008 to 2010. 90+ points.

Ata Rangi should be on everyone's list to try if the better Oregon pinots appeal. I've been drinking the '02 over the last year or so and it is extremely nice with three hours of air time. Vibrant dark cherry fruit with a slight citrus edge, nice acidity and just the right amount of earthy flavors is the best way I can describe the style, though that doesn't do it justice. Again, if many of the Calif pinots come across as to ripe and candied, Ata Rangi should be on your list of wines to find.