This is the 3rd vintage collaboration whereby Burn Cottage and Valli have exchanged fruit and made wine from the others fruit. 2016 was relatively warm vintage. From vines planted in 2003 and a mix of Abel, 115, 667 clones with 25% whole bunch used. Under screwcap. I opened this on a fruit day and it presented as bright, glossy, transparent medium to deep garnet with little sign of ageing in line with my expectations. Sour red cherry with subtle background aromas of wet leaves more like a Marlborough or Martinborough than a typical Central Otago Pinot Noir, which surprised me a bit. Tannins are fully resolved with a round core of red fruit which has a touch of sweetness. The acidity is also round and in keeping with the overall profile. Little sign of the 20% new oak used. Medium length. Elegant – almost delicate – well made, but nothing spectacular just a good enjoyable bottle. 1,481 bottles produced. 92pts
See also, David’s review of the 2014 vintage recently – https://winefolio.co.nz/?p=14828
