OK, so tonight I’ve convened a wine tasting with the theme of “100 point wines” – and this is one of them. Given a perfect score by James Suckling, which is a rarity for one of the big overseas critics to award to a New Zealand wine. He said “This is perhaps the greatest Pinot Noir I have ever tasted in New Zealand.” It is from a single block – the first one planted within this well-established vineyard on Felton Road, Bannockburn in Central Otago. Sealed under cork.
A clear, medium-weight ruby/burgundy colour in the glass. The bouquet is satisfyingly Pinot-like, with strawberry, cranberry, red cherry, blueberry and orange peel layered over thyme, lavender and Christmas spices. The palate is medium to full-bodied, with power and generosity but equal parts delicacy and poise. Gracefully well-formed for a young wine, with balance and integration already happening and yet there are layers of complexity that slowly unfurl. A chalky minerality and an earthiness that returns to that herbal spiciness. Broad, supple tannin and keen acidity form the spine, with clearly ripe and juicy fruit (again, this is very youthful). Almost a shame to open this so early – but we’re always keen to see any wine that created a stir. Cellar this for optimal drinking. For now, 95pts.
