The 2000 Ata Rangi Pinot Noir is a monster. This is one of the most concentrated Pinots from New Zealand that I have tasted. I would compare it to some of the top Pinots from the Russian River Valley in California. Ata Rangi is located on the North Island in the heart of Martinborough, the first epicenter for quality Pinot in New Zealand.
The nose was very lush with concentrated fruit. On the palatte, it was packed with flavor from attack to finish; it had a solid core but not overly tannic. It makes me wish I had a case in the cellar to enjoy again and again over the next decade. At around US$40 per bottle, it is a bit pricey by New Zealand standards but good Pinot always is. More importantly, the price is very competitive against equivalent quality Pinots from California, Oregon, or Burgundy.