The Better Half Pinot Noir 2023 Wine Review

Natalie's Score: 91/100

The Better Half Pinot Noir from Marlborough is a supple, medium-bodied red offering aromas of ripe red plum, wild strawberry, and hints of warm baking spice. It's dry with silky tannins and refreshing acidity. Serve it lightly chilled with roasted pork loin and caramelized apples as the wine's bright fruit and subtle savory notes will enhance the sweet and savory interplay, or pair it with grilled salmon glazed with soy and ginger where the wine's delicate structure and red berry flavors will complement the fish's richness beautifully. Winemaker George Elworthy, a part-time pilot and amateur aircraft restorer who honed his craft at distinguished Marlborough estates including Cloudy Bay and Seresin, playfully named this wine after his friendly rivalry with his wife Jules Taylor, the acclaimed "Queen of Sauvignon Blanc" who was named New Zealand Winemaker of the Year in 2021. The couple sources fruit from select vineyards in Marlborough's Wairau and Awatere Valleys, known for their well-draining, stony soils and dramatic temperature swings. Enjoy now or cellar for 2-3 years.

Pinot Noir food pairings: roasted pork loin with caramelized apples, soy-ginger glazed salmon, mushroom risotto.

Plush Pork Wine

This The Better Half Pinot Noir 2023 was reviewed on January 10, 2026 by Natalie MacLean

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Please note that our reviews are based on a variety of sources: samples sent to our team, those we purchase in store, tasting events, those tasted in restaurants and while traveling domestically and internationally.

Recipes for The Better Half Pinot Noir 2023

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