Burgundy wine expert and author Clive Coates once wrote that Pinot Noir can "... seduce like the first kiss from someone you are just about to fall in love with." In the enologically short period of 20 years, an infatuated Pinot Noir has planted a big wet one on the lips of New Zealand.

The small country Down Under has become a big player in Pinot Noir production, making exciting and delicious wines that are reaching U.S. shores in increasing numbers.