16 Jun 2011
Bannockburn, Central Otago, New Zealand: 14%; $90; screwcap; clones 5, 6, 10/5 and 777, the oldest (on own roots) 15 years at harvest; earlier vintages have been cropped at c. 4 t/ha = 1.6 t/ac; 9 days cold-soak, 7 days fermentation, 9 days maceration, giving a cuvaison of 25 days, 25% whole bunches; 16 months in French oak, some new, MLF in barrel the following spring; light fining only; www.mtdifficulty.co.nz
Fine pinot noir ruby. Bouquet epitomises fine New Zealand pinot noir, beautifully and warmly floral with violets, roses and boronia, attractive red and black cherry fruit which is not too black, subtle oak, and great excitement. Palate follows through perfectly, great international-quality pinot noir, supple, charming, with layers of flavour, yet not overly dark and fruity as so many Otago examples can be. Not a big wine or a show-stopper in the conventional New Zealand sense, but a very beautiful example of New Zealand pinot noir which is truly burgundian in styling. Cellar 3 – 8 years, 10 in a cool cellar. GK 06/11
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