This was described by winemaker Malcolm Rees-Francis in our conversation this year, as a wine ‘constructed’ in a particular style, using the artistry of the winemaker over the science.
Deep ruby colour with paler edges, and an expressive nose filled with doris plum, blackberry, campari and thyme, alongside distinctive cinnamon and green peppercorn notes. Full bodied and concentrated, carrying lush blueberry, damson and black cherry fruit girdled in tight, dense tannins with a full extraction grip. Round and polished with a seam of well integrated, but palpable oak; around the dense juicy core.
Complex, with layers that give floral – think lilac and cherry blossom; then spices – star anise and cloves; and a mineral lick of graphite and resin. A generous wine, and one to be enjoyed over a long evening – this opens up beautifully with a couple of hours in the decanter; and matches well with duck confit or slow braised venison.
94pts. Excellent. A classic expression of a ‘big’ Pinot.
