Most impressive Central Otago pinot announces itself at the very start. Perfumed with more earthy dusty notes emerging. Balances the floral of red berry and roses with an interesting brick dust character. It works. There is a degree of palate tension yet there is flesh. It’s that classic pinot thing. That fine thread of acid contributes the final piece to a very fine wine. Points: 95/100
Currants, black raspberries, ash and peppercorns on the nose. Savory and subtly peppery with a medium body and fine tannins. Tight finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink now or hold. Screw cap. Points: 91/100
Even, deep crimson with a purple core, lighter on the rim. This has a lifted, youthful bouquet of bramble and cherry interweave hibiscus and sweet vanilla. Medium-bodied, aromas of cherry and raspberry melded with cinnamon, vanilla and lingered with hibiscus floral. Supple tannins provide a light grip, and lacy acidity lends a fresh, piquant finish. This is a vibrant Pinot Noir with a red fruit core, hibiscus and dusty spice finish. Match with duck and pork over the next 3-5 years. 52% Abel clone, 48% clones 115 & 5, handpicked, destemmed into small open top fermenters with a high portion of whole berries. One small component contained 100% whole bunches, foot stomped and underwent a period of carbonic maceration. Final blend with 15% whole bunch, 32 days on skins, aged in French oak barriques for 10 months, 30% new oak, underwent natural MLF. Points: 90/100
An enticing mineral laden bouquet with scents of chalky clay soils then a core of light red fruits and barrel spices then a soft smoky soil quality. Undeniably complex with a pinosity and charm. Equally enticing on the palate with texture then flavour, an abundance of fine tannins from needle point to moderate then acidity and fruit flavours delivering a core of red fruits, medium+ acidity and length developing complex finish. Great drinking from mid to late 2023 through 2030+. Points: 93/100
Fragrant, floral aroma with the scent of red rose leads to a more fruit-forward palate with dark cherry/berry characters with subtle fresh herb flavours. A backbone of fine, ripe tannins gives energy and suggests cellaring potential. Points: 94/100
