The Edge
no
224
The Edge
Pinot Gris
New Zealand, Martinborough, fresh Pinot Gris by Escarpment Vineyard
New Zealand, Martinborough, The Edge by Escarpment, Pinot Gris, 2016

Introduction
The Wairarapa region on the south-west tip of North Island, just south of the town of Martinborough is the home of Escarpment’s 24ha., along the river Huangarua. Martinborough is also the name of the wine sub-region of Wairarapa, originally known for its Pinot Noir, but Pinot Gris is taking a foothold (together with Sauvignon Blanc). The vineyard was established in 1998 under the guidance of Larry McKenna (‘Prince of Pinot’) to become an award winning premium brand.

Early 2018 the premium Torbreck winery from Australia’s Barossa Valley bought the property, with Larry McKenna continuing to be the winemaker and face of Escarpment. The Edge is one of their brands, with a Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. The name of Edge refers to New Zealand being on the edge of the world and the vineyard being on the edge of the steep slope of the vineyard (an escarpment). The brand invites you ‘join them into their venture to the edge’, together with an indigenous image on their label.
Year:
2016
Approx:
£ 11.50
Best Served:
12-14 °C
Vol:
13.0 %
Review Date:
11 . 01 . 2019
Origin:
New Zealand, Martinborough
Wine Specifics
Ready to drink, label suggests to drink it ‘over the next 2 years’. Fresh, fruity, crisp, dry, balanced, hints of pear, peach, spice. Serving fish, starters, (grilled) white meats, light cheeses, on its own. Obtained in the UK. Screwtop.
Insights:
The Escarpment logo itself represents the great Polynesian voyager, Kupe. According to Maori legend this warrior discovered New Zealand, with links to the area very near to the vineyard. The winery feels close to this leader and pioneer, providing the inspiration for the logo and the brand. Apart from the Escarpment wine range the logo comes back in the Insight Series, small batch wine growing, with the names referring to the individual vineyards; Kupe, Kiwa and Te Rehua. Furthermore, there is an Artisan range of wines, using a larger grape selection, away from the traditional and regular Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Often these red Martinborough wines are compared to the fine Burgundies.
Review Date:
11 . 01 . 2019