Marie Zelie
Martinborough Vineyard is proud to present the seventh release of Marie Zelie Pinot Noir.
Marie Zelie is a rare and coveted fine wine carrying the hallmarks of Martinborough Vineyard’s pioneering style and impeccable reputation. Only produced in outstanding vintages, the 2020 vintage marks the seventh release of the wine in over 20 years, with only 1,487 coveted bottles made.
As custodian of a long and prestigious tradition of handcrafted wine at Martinborough Vineyard, this vintage marks an exciting new chapter with new Winemaker Tom Turner at the helm. The result is an elegant, sophisticated and seamless wine displaying the finest hallmarks of a great Martinborough Pinot Noir; brooding intensity, richness and depth of flavour.
98 Points, 5 Stars, Sam Kim by Wine Orbit 2026
92 Points, James Suckling 2026
“Supremely refined and classically structured.”
"Stunning and seductive, poised yet powerful, this is a multi-layered pinot with waves of complex flavours. The bouquet is filled with nuances of dark berries, roasted hazelnut, cured meat, bouquet garni, warm spices, and dried mushrooms. It’s concentrated and plush on the palate, exhibiting a seamless flow and a richly textured mouthfeel. This is supremely refined and classically structured with a sustained, engaging finish. At its best: now to 2037." - Sam Kim, 2026
More information and tasting notes here.
The History of Marie Zelie
The little-known Marie Zelie Hermance Frere was a genuine local wine pioneer, and her heritage is represented three generations later in the Martinborough Vineyard founding Milne family. We are proud to name this exceptional Pinot Noir in her honour.
Arriving in Wairarapa in 1882, she planted vines to remind her of her French home and within a decade was making wine from more than 3000 cuttings on the family estate near Masterton. In 1908 prohibition was adopted in in Wairarapa and her vines were pulled out. A century later, Martinborough Vineyard founder Derek Milne married Marie Zelie’s great-great-niece Margaret.
Marie Zelie is the finest reflection of Martinborough Vineyard Pinot Noir, with just five barrels selected resulting in only 1,487 coveted bottles of the 2020 vintage made.
We unashamedly believe it is the leader of New Zealand Pinot Noir, secure in its strong heritage and striving for perfection with every vintage.
