This is a very good Central Otago pinot noir from Valli's Gibbstone vineyard and the 2017 vintage. It has restrained blackcurrant, dark cherry and undergrowth aromas, with Burgundian echoes. The palate has medium tannins, high acid, medium length and a full body, and a dried herb character. Ready to drink now. Rating: Good to Very... Continue Reading →
Escarpment Pinot Noir Martinborough 2017
This is a pleasant pinot noir from Escarpment in Martinborough, New Zealand. It has a subtle aroma of spice, rosemary and green stalks. On the palate, the fruit is ripe and youthful with a gentle petulance at times and the tannins are low to medium and finely knit. The oak is very well integrated (25%... Continue Reading →
Kumeu Village Chardonnay 2018
From benchmark New Zealand producer Kumeu River, this chardonnay proved a little too sculptured for me, with the hand of the winemaker evident. It opens to aromas of flint and smoke. The palate has high acidity, the body is full and the wine finishes on acidity rather than fruit. It proved somewhat hard work. Rating:... Continue Reading →