In 2021, Rock Ferry made the decision to include a Marlborough-sourced Pinot Noir in their 3rd Rock lineup, a change from previous vintages which sourced their 3rd Rock Pinot Noir solely from Central Otago. Marlborough Pinot Noir popularity is just hitting the market outside of New Zealand but they’ve been a popular choice domestically for over a decade. 3rd Rock’s version displays tart cranberry and pomegranate, dried rose petal, graphite minerality, and subtle underbrush notes. The integration and complexity are superb with each sip leaving the drinker wondering which flavor is dominating the wine. While Rock Ferry is a relatively small producer, they have consistently impressed me with the quality of their wines.
Rock Ferry, Marlborough (South Island, New Zealand) Pinot Noir 2021
By Vince Simmon