Planted in 1994 on the steep north-facing slopes of the Maungawera Valley, the 4 ha Mt Maude vineyard just outside of Wanaka, is the source today of the best wines from the Maude brand. This wine has been slumbering in bottle since their early days. An opaque ruby-purple in the glass. Dark and brooding, with raspberry, plum, cranberry fruits amongst vanilla, date, cherry cola, cinnamon, sumac and orange peel notes in the bouquet. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a well-balanced structure that is equal parts chalky tannin, oak and breezy acid. Any edges are now smooth and the palate has a balm-like glassiness that is glossy and succulent. The finish peters out slightly, but at 25 years old, it is an enjoyable drop nonetheless. 91pts
Maude ‘Mt Maude’ Pinot Noir 2000
