A prestigious wine – it won the Trophy for Pinot Noir/Burgundy at the London International Wine Challenge in 2001. At the time, that was the ever non-French wine to win this award. The 2000 Reserve also won the Gold Medal Trophy at the Sydney International Wine Competition and the Japan International Wine Challenge. Tasted with friends at a table suitably groaning with fine food – including some quality steak. A clear, bright ruby/burgundy in the glass. It has the scent of a ‘reserve’ wine from this era – the dark red fruits overlaid with a toasted oak layer of vanilla, spice and smoky incense. The palate also has plenty of extraction, with the bold grip of tannin still persisting, and a supple spine of that oak and fruit density. Acidity is enough to further heighten the plush fruit, which has depth and a juicy intensity. For a wine approaching its silver anniversary, this is still quite lively, and has a fine length to the finish. 94pts
Gibbston Valley Reserve Pinot Noir 2000
