In my mind certainly, this wine is becoming an iconic Central Otago Pinot. From the Wanaka vineyard – vines that are on steep land, necessarily trimmed by hand.
A bright burgundy in the glass, good legs; and with blowsy aromas of violet, cloves and black tea. A generosity to the palate, with layers of intense dark cherry, damson and cinnamon (70% whole bunch here). Sweetly integrated oak with a supple tannin backbone gives balance and some mocha, savoury notes come calling from the depths at the long, lingering finish.
Maude have developed a seriously strong team of Pinot Noirs in their Single Vineyard (or expression) roster now. But this, top level wine is still a real force to be reckoned with. One ‘to spend some time with’. This will age beautifully if you can keep yourself away from it – ten years at least.
More on the amazing Maude wines (and an afternoon’s tasting for the ages) to come in WineFolio – stay tuned!
