Marie Zelie
Martinborough Vineyard is proud to present the seventh release of Marie Zelie Pinot Noir.
Auckland Release Event
History of Marie Zelie
Be the first to hear of Marie Zelie Pinot Noir 2020’s anticipated release.
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.
Be the first to hear of Marie Zelie Pinot Noir 2020’s anticipated release.
Auckland release event
The Seventh Release of Marie Zelie Pinot Noir event at Somm Cellar Door
Wednesday 10 June 2026, 6pm
Somm welcomes Martinborough Vineyard Winemaker Tom Turner to present the seventh release of Marie Zelie Pinot Noir 2020.
Experience an evening of thoughtfully paired canapés while tasting through the rich history of Martinborough Vineyard. This intimate gathering brings together fellow wine enthusiasts for a relaxed night of great conversation, exploring the vineyard’s legacy while marking an exciting new chapter with Tom at the helm, honouring the enduring influence of local wine pioneer Marie Zelie.
In addition to being among the first to taste the exceptional new release, ticket holders will have the exclusive opportunity to purchase the Marie Zelie Pinot Noir 2020 to take home.
A rare, intimate evening of exceptional wine.
$95 per person (+ fees) includes tastings of six wines with paired canapés, and an intimate masterclass from Tom Turner.
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.
