The ‘Claim 431’ vineyard of Accolade Wines in Bendigo, Central Otago, has a proven track record of yielding outstanding, serious and sophisticated Pinot Noir that is capable of winning gold medals. The Bendigo district tends to give firmly structured, black-fruited wines that benefit with bottle-age. In 2016, the Accolade winemakers made the ‘Madam Sass’ Pinot Noir with approachability and accessibility in mind, and this they did well, that year, and the following year in 2017. The wine has found a place in the market appealing to Central Otago Pinot Noir drinkers who appreciate drinkability. The name ‘Madam Sass’ is a tribute to the hardy and characterful women who were integral with the Central Otago gold rush era. It was a logical extension to introduce a rosé wine next into the range. I review the first Madam Sass Rosé here. The winemaker is Cleighten Cornelius. www.madamsass.co.nz