The Fusilier Vineyard is named after Major Dermot Neill – owner Sam Neill’s father – a soldier in the Royal Irish Fusilier Regiment. A 5.6 hectare site of north-facing terraces at the western end of Felton Road in Bannockburn, Central Otago. A slightly opaque garnet red in the glass, with some evidence of age and browning in colour from this 9-year old wine. The bouquet is spicy and floral, with plum, woody herbs, raspberry, red cherry, blueberry, then a lift of lavender and rose petal. Plush red fruits are to the fore, with a spine of integrated acidity and fine tannins. A green note is also here, with nettle, thyme and moss woven into the layers of flavours. A well-balanced and detailed whole to the finish – quite seamless and satisfying. 94pts
Two Paddocks The Fusilier Pinot Noir 2015
