Although some of these tasting notes may be found elsewhere on this site, this page brings together most of my Pinot Noir notes, listed alphabetically by Producer. Click here for rating systems and abbreviations.

Click here for a fact file of Pinot Noir in New Zealand.

Akarua Central Otago Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Dense purple red with a powerful aroma of plums, spice and leather. The wine coats the mouth with its firm velvet tannins and seduces with chocolate and black cherry flavours balanced by an underlying savoury richness, spiced mushrooms and thyme. A little reminiscent of the fabulous 2002. Exciting! 14% alc. $32.99. 3Aug2011.
Dark ruby/black red with considerable density. Perfumed, a little floral and spicy and savoury tasting witha hint of strawberry and black cherry, a Shrewsbury biscuit creaminess and a lovely musky floral lift. Rich and deep with hints of anise, a touch of chocolate and a nice grip to the velvety tannins. 14% alc. $39.95. 16Aug2011.

Brancott Estate T Terraces Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Dark ruby (slightly purple) red. Aromas of smoky creamy oak, vanilla, chocolate and black cherry and in the palate silk-edged velvety tannins with a lovely deep fruitiness and a savoury gamey disposition. Firm structure nevertheless with vanilla and spice and a touch of strawberry chocolate adding a succulent coating to the deep savoury end. Very easy to enjoy. 13.5% alc. $? 16Aug2011.

Burnt Spur Martinborough Pinot Noir 2010(sc) Dark rubyish, black cherry hue, moderately dense. Lovely savoury, smoky, plum and cherry scent and succulent spicy flavours with that distinct strawberry guava yin/yang. Sweet and savoury with a velvety texture and a lovely long succulent and sumptuous finish. 14% alc. $46. 16Aug2011.

Coopers Creek Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Ruby, translucent. Perfumed and musky. An elegant style with silky tannins, and richness of juicy black cherry fruit, a savoury undercurrent and a long fine textured finish. 13.5% alc. 16Aug2011.
Ruby purple-garnet, clear and bright. Aromas of musk and earth, and fine-textured flavours with a herbal edge before black cherry fruit fleshes out the palate. The finish is full with a spicy flourish and excellent length. 14% alc. $14.99. 19Oct2011.

Crowded House Nelson/Marlborough/Central Otago Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Deep-hued purple garnet with a rich creamy succulent cherry and chocolate aroma and a bright-fruited layer to the earthy savoury flavours, chocolate, cherry, citrus and fruits of the forest combine in the best possible way and while the tannins are firm, the savoury finish is succulent, spicy and long. 14.5% alc. $16.99. 31Aug2011.

Fairmont Estate Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Deep ruby in colour with purple flashes. The rich powerful aroma is savoury, spicy and deep. The palate is filled with succulent red fruit and savoury French oak with the quintessential bittersweet thing going on. The texture is velvety texture and this finish is ripe fruited, full bodied and long. 14.5% alc. 16Aug2011.
Deep purple-tinged ruby, almost opaque, this is a rich, powerful expression with intensity to the aroma and a deep savoury flavour with spicy oak, bittersweet cherry and a touch of strawberry. The texture is fine and velvety and the firm full-bodied finish is juicy and ripe. 14.5% alc. $21.99. 31Aug2011.
Dense cherry red in hue Perfumed and floral, yet savoury too – the bouquet is intriguing and complex with perhaps a hint of chocolate cherry coming through. Spicy, gamey and savoury, almost peppery to the taste with brightness to the red fruits, a fine citrussy nuance and a texture that has a silky finesse. 14.5% alc. $21.99. 26Oct2011.

Felton Road Bannockburn Central Otago Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Ruby/purple with moderate density. The ripe, spicy bouquet is perfumed with cherries and hints of chocolate and a savoury finesse. The savouriness on the nose carries through to the fine-tannined, seamless palate. Not particularly fruity – just lovely varietal earth, game and forest floor. Harmonious with beautiful flow but begging to be accompanied with rack of lamb. 14% alc. $57.99. 26Oct2011.

Jules Taylor Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Fruit cake cherries and strawberries abound in this deep coloured, silky succulent wine with a savoury gamey undercurrent and a smoky French oak nuance. There's a little grip to the tea-like tannins and the finish is succulent. A blend from the Awatere and Brancott Valley. 14% alc. $36. 16Aug2011.

Kim Crawford Regional Reserve Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Dark garnet, ruby. Fruity smelling with strawberry, cherry and a hint of chocolate and finely textured with a well-balanced smoky savoury undercurrent, finishing succulent and clean with a zing of acidity. 14% alc. $25. 16Aug2011.

Lowburn Ferry Home Block Central Otago Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Dense dark ruby red. Hints of roses and violets on the smoky vanillin nose. A succulent savoury wine with earth, smoke, tar and leather and a firm velvety tannin backbone, black cherries, cake spices and a hint of black pepper. A powerful wine with excellent potential for the cellar. 13.5% alc. $45.95. 16Aug2011.

Milcrest Estate Nelson Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Transparent ruby in hue. Perfumed, a little musky and floral with soft bittersweet cherries. A fragrant, medium-bodied Pinot Noir with a lovely cake spice complexity, fine silky tannins, strawberry, cherry, tamarillo, dried woody herbs and a lingering finish with those musky nuances coming forth again on the end. 14% alc. $27. 16Aug2011.
Translucent garnet ruby in hue with a perfumed, savoury, smoky aroma and a medium-bodied impression to the palate. It has some grip to the silky-textured tannins with a juicy red fruit sweetness, a hint of cake spice, dried woody herbs and finishes dry. An 'elegant' style. 14% alc. $26.99. 14Sep2011.

Mondillo Central Otago Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) This intense black cherry coloured wine has a beguiling perfume of wild thyme, fruits of the forest and cherry. Concentrated and powerful in it’s youth, the taste is spicy with underlying acidity adding zest to the blackcurrant and bittersweet cherry fruit. A structured wine with firm tannins yet to resolve, but they will and lingering, it has a savoury depth and lingering flavours of mocha, cherry and red berries. 14.5% alc. $37.99. 20Jul2011.
Youthful purple/garnet. Beautifully perfumed with florals, aromatic herbs and meaty oak, yet with refinement and elegance to the scent. In the palate the tannins are silky smooth and fine with concentrated black cherry, hints of chocolate and anise. Seems very easy yet it has structure and power, the finish goes on and on, and it could go in the cellar for a while. 14.5% alc. $37.99. 26Oct2011.

Peregrine Central Otago Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Bright ruby-hued purple with a deep savoury aroma that has a cooked cherry fruitiness, earth and plums. Firmly structured with more tannin than you probably expect from the region, this earthy savoury wine opens up nicely in the glass to reveal deep flavours of black cherries, Portobello mushrooms, dried thyme and hints of anise. 13.5% alc.$36.99. 10Aug2011.

Rockburn Central Otago Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Dark ruby purple. Perfumed with a hint of spiced tamarillo to the scent. Spicy and savoury, lots of appeal here with the smooth creamy texture supported by fine velvety tannins, lovely bright fruit and a deliciously long lingering finish with hints of tarragon and anise. 14% alc. $45. 16Aug2011.

Saint Clair Pioneer Block 12 Lone Gum Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Deep dark ruby with a purplish edge. A bouquet of spiced plum and dried roses and juicy, savoury flavour with bits of smoky bacon, dried herb and mushroom adding complexity. Firm yet creamy textured with plenty of bright fruit character. Strawberry, cherry and a touch of bitter chocolate on the ripe-fruited end. 14.5% alc. $32. 16Aug2011.

Saint Clair Pioneer Block 16 Awatere Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) There are crimson flashes to the ruby purple colour. The aroma is smoky and savoury with dried herbs and bittersweet cherry and fine-textured palate is savoury in with purple fruits, hints of cherry guava, firm tannins and an underpinning of leather. Very ripe, due to the high alcohol which gives a jammy impression but the finish is earthy and long. 15.5% alc. $32. 16Aug2011.

Saint Clair Pioneer Block 22 Barn Block Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Similar to the Block 16 in colour, this has a lovely tamarillo and plum perfumed smoky savoury scent infused with rose petals and cherry. Spicy and savoury to the taste with a lovely seam of acidity that keeps the wine bright and clear. Purity of fruit and fine tannins make this a star. 14.5% alc. $32. 16Aug2011.

Stoneleigh Latitude Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) With a deeply translucent ruby garnet colour, an attractive wild raspberry/strawberry perfume and a fine silky texture, it initially seems quite light but the wine compounds in richness and mouthfeel. There's a floral prettiness layered into the earth and the red berry fruit flavours and while not a blockbuster, it will have wide appeal. 14% alc. $16.99. 28Sep2011.

Thornbury Central Otago Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Dark, almost dense ruby purple. There's a deep earthy sense to the smoky, savoury scent. A full-bodied serious pinot that belies its price tag, it has an intriguing spiciness, thick-set plush tannins, plum and cherry fruit and a deep savoury backbone with earth, herbs and oak on the very long, dry, full-bodied finish. 14% alc. $27. 16Aug2011.

Tohu Rore Reserve Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Dark ruby red with considerable intensity. Cherry chocolate and a hint of marzipan on the nose. Firm tannins, red and black fruits, spiced raspberry and some lovely bittersweet things going on. Smoky savoury gamey undercurrent and a long lingering finish, rose hip florals too. 14% alc. $38. 16Aug2011.
Ruby/purple with a sweet, black cherry and chocolate aroma. Quite smoky, moderately full-bodied with sweet juicy red and black fruit, velvety tannins and a raspberry chocolatey finish with a nice touch of sweet thyme coming through and rosehips on the savoury aftertaste. 14.5% alc. $38.95. 4Oct2011.

Torea Oystercatcher Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Ruby/purple red. Aromas of bittersweet cherries and medium to full-bodied in palate weight with red fruits, chocolate and a smoky meaty undercurrent. Seems a little sweet but there's a balancing savoury edge. Builds in richness and complexity with time in the bottle. A value buy. 14% alc. $16.00. 4Oct2011.

Triplebank Awatere Valley Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Deep plummy red with ruby/purple edges. The aroma is savoury and a little floral. Smoky and savoury tasting with an earthy depth, bittersweet tamarillo and morello cherry fruit, hints of violets, finesseful tannins and a long fine finish. This is a lovely savoury wine with a delicate dried herb and floral nuance and rich ripe red fruits. 13.5% alc. $27. 16Aug2011.

Waipara Hills Waipara Valley Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Ruby garnet, bright in appearance. Perfumed and delicately savoury. Sweet-fruited, yet savoury with a lovely fine textured, silky veneer. Medium body, floral tones, bittersweet cherry finish. Fabulous sub-$20 pinot if you like a lighter style. 13% alc. $16.99. 3Aug2011.

Vidal Reserve Series Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Vibrant purple garnet, youthful. A lovely savoury wine with a velvety texture and succulent flavours of black cherries. A nice infusion of mulled wine spice seasoning and a touch of orange zest adds brightness to the finish and there are beguiling floral nuances too. 14% alc. $29. 16Aug2011.

Whitehaven Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010 (sc) Ruby garnet. Smoky savoury aroma with some bittersweet cherry and floral notes too. In the palate there are raspberry, red cherry, a touch of chocolate, a seamlessness to the texture and a lovely floral nuance to the bright savoury finish that lingers with succulent ease. Lots of delicious juiciness here. 14% alc. $29. 16Aug2011.

Akarua Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) A deep and intense ruby colour with opulent aromas and powerful and succulent flavours. Chocolate and cherry combine with creamy oak, velvety tannins and the succulent finish has an earthy savoury depth. A delicious, rich and generous wine with a gorgeous infusion of spice and bright kick to the finish, I thought it quite outstanding, definitely of gold medal standard and a five star rating. 10 months in French oak, 25% new. 14% alc. $35. 5Mar2010.
Deep intense ruby in hue with inviting aromas of plum, earth and savoury oak, the generous flavours are reminiscent of bright red fruits with anise-like spices, smoky oak, a touch of chocolate and acidity adding brightness. It's succulent and approachable yet has a structure that demands respect. 14% alc. $31.99. 30Mar2011.

Akarua Central Otago Bannockburn Reserve Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) A brilliant rich ruby red colour, showing a little more depth than its sibling, this has a very inviting voluptuous aroma of smoky savoury oak with a hint of game and bittersweet red fruits. A full-bodied pinot in the best possible way, it's spicy and savoury with silk-edged velvety tannins, juicy red and black fruits and a succulent and savoury finish that leaves a powerful impression. The textural complexity gives it the upper hand and thre's a lovely vibrancy as the spice-infused flavours linger. 10 months in French oak, 36% new. 14.7% alc. $57. 5Mar2010.

Bannock Brae Goldfields Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deep rich ruby/purple. Sweet, chocolaty. Intense on the nose and in the palate with chocolate, plum and black fruits and edgy acidity adding verve. Rounded tannins and a long savoury finish.. Lots of interest here. 14.3% alc. $29.95. 4Oct2011.

Black Estate Waipara Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Hints of cherries and chocolate on the bouquet that’s distinctly floral and musky with hints of anise and dried woody herbs that carry through to the palate. Quite dry, with firm dry tannins, and juicy bittersweet fruit and s savoury earthy finish. 14.3% alc. $41.00. 2Aug2011.

Blind Trail Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Dark maroon in colour with a ruby glow. Aromas of Christmas cake, smoke and game lead into a soft smooth palate full of black cherries and mulled wine spices. An ultra-juicy wine with a genuine smoky, savoury backbone, it gets big ticks for its downright drinkability. 14.2% alc. 5Jan2011.

Bouldevines Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deep in colour, like a shiny black cherry freshly plucked from the tree. Smoky and savoury aromas with a suggestion of concentrated winey sweetness. Gutsy, savoury flavours with a smoky richness balancing the succulent bittersweet red fruits that hint of black cherry and tamarillo, an underlying earthy gamey depth and gorgeous velvety tannins with a fine seam of spice running through the finish. Deep, sumptuousness and satisfactying. 14.2% alc. $31. 27Sep2010.

Crowded House Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Ruby garnet red An opulent smelling Pinot - juicy, succulent, brimming with black cherry fruit and savoury oak. A downright, generous, soft juicy pinot - it has the fruitiness, it has the spice and most of all, the essential savouriness. Made from a blend of Marlborough, Nelson and Central Otago grapes. 4 stars.13.5% alc. $18. 27May2010.

Cable Bay Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Dense ruby with a concentrated earthy aroma, this is a dense, thick, meaty wine with velvety tannins and juicy tamarillo and cherry fruit. A generous wine with lovely anise and tarragon notes coming through on the smoky, almost creamy finish. 14% alc. $34.90. 20Aug2010.

Chard Farm Mata-Au Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) A light ruby / dark garnet with some transparancy to the hue, the aromas are savoury and ever so slightly minty with woodsmoke in the distance. Oak comes though in the palate and the woody herbs make a statement too. The fruit is reminiscent of cranberry and bittersweet cherry but it's more earthy and herbal than fruity, and the finish is dry. Grapes grown in Parkburn / Lowburn area. Seem like ti is a wine that will blossom with a little more time.13.5% alc. $44. 5Mar2011.

Chard Farm River Run Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) A dark garnet hue with some transparency, the wine has a savoury aroma with an infusion of cherry, and a juicy, velvety textured, generous flavour with cherry, herbs and a lovely touch of chocolate. Anise comes through on the last finish and a smidgen of orange peel too. Shows the elegant, floral side of Pinot Noir and does it beautifully. Grapes grown in Parkburn / Lowburn area. Very drinkable and sure to please. 13.5% alc. $28. 5Mar2011.

Churton Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (D) Ruby garnet, translucent. Tight savoury nose, with hints of smoky bacon and lovely savoury flavours combining with cherry fruit in the palate.Very dry with a fine tannin structure and an oaky veneer. The fruit expands on the finish and lingers sweetly. 13.5% alc. $44.00. 22Jun2011.

Clearview Estate Des Trois Pinot Noir 2009 (D) A blend of Central Otago, Wairarapa and Waipara and Te Awanga grapes, while light and fairly transparent in colour, it's by no means light in stature. Cedary oak and a lovely fruit profile with an array of strawberry, cherry and brambles with fine but firm tannins, and a deep savoury richness with fine acidity adding brightness to the mouth-filling finish and spicy vanillin oak lingering. ?% alc. $45. 16Aug2011.

Deep Cove Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Ruby garnet in hue with a floral and slightly musky aroma with fragrant dried thyme. The dried herbs come through in the palate with cherries and purple plums. A little stalky but emphatically savoury, it's medium-bodied in style with silky tannins. The musky (floral) nuances appear on the sweet mushroomy finish with a hint of anise coming through. 14.3% alc. $30. 16Aug2011.
Dark ruby/tamarillo hued. Sweet smelling with smoky oak, black cherry and spiced tamarillo scents. Ripe and rounded with a lovely savoury richness, bittersweet red fruits, moderately firm tannins for the variety but also in the context, quite light. There's cake spice on the lingering finish with acidity adding brightness and length. Made by Wild Earth. 14.3% alc. $29.99. 26Oct2011.

Devils Staircase Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Bright ruby with a sweet cherry aroma, this wine needs a little time to evolve but when it does, it expresses earthy gamey flavours and red and purple fruits beautifully. The 'second label' from high-flier Rockburn, this is complex and intriguing. 14% alc. $24.00. 20Aug2010.

Discovery Point Lowburn Vineyard Selection Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Dark garnet red, translucent in appearance, this has a sweet / smoky aroma and a very savoury, earthy, truffle-like palate with smoky oak, nutmeg, a touch of tomato stalk, ripe black cherry and finally chocolate adding an impression of sweetness. Underlying acidity leaves the mouth with a tingle of brightness. Not your typical CO pinot noir, but there's a wonderful savoury complexity that many people will like. 13.5% alc. $23.99. 25May2011.

Domain Road Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) A beguiling aroma with a floral allure and chocolatey oak adding to its scented charm. It's dark cherry in hue and initially tastes quite spicy with boiled red fruits, fruits of the forest and plum jam. With firm tannins, a deep savoury richness and lively acidity, it’s a food proposition right now with cellar potential ahead of it. 14% alc. $35.99. 26Oct2011.

Durvillea Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Ruby hued in colour, it's smoky and savoury with firm well-structured tannins and deep, brooding bittersweet red berries, plums and black cherry with a lovely infusion of anise-like herbs and underlying tomato-like acidity that adds brightness to the finish. With its funky, savoury, forest floor characters, it seems older and more grown-up than it actually is. 14% alc. $20. 30Jul2010.
This is smoky and savoury with concentrated cherry fruit on the nose and a spicy brightness to the earthy savoury flavours. It's a medium Burgundy-red colour and with its silky, sultry, satisfying texture and juicy black cherry fruit, it offers value-packed drinking. 14% alc. $20.99 17Nov2010.

Fairmont Estate Block One Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Dark Burgundy red with chocolate and cherry scents that lead into a ripe, luscious palate that full of juicy cherry and tamarillo fruit supported by plush velvety tannins with a deep gamey, savoury richness and a spicy kick to finish. Offers stunning value at the price point. 14.5% alc. $23.99. 13Oct2010.

Fairmont Estate Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deep maroon red in colour with spicy, savoury aromas and juicy blackberry, cranberry and cherry fruit with a hint of chocolate adding to its allure. Tannins are fine and velvety and a gamey character permeates the finish giving it a real sense of Pinot Noir. 14.5% alc. $19.99. 29Sep2010.
Ruby garnet, translucent in appearance, with bottled cherry scents, this seems like a lighter styled Pinot with firm tannins and a tickle of acidity, yet this earthy savoury wine with its bittersweet profile has a sensuous richness that evolves and a satisfying conclusion. Firm, dry, Burgundian in style. 14.5% alc. $19.99. 23Mar2011.

Felton Road Bannockburn Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deep purple red in colour, this is a lovely bright, spicy, tangy Pinot Noir, youthful in its expression with firmness to the tannins, underlying acidity, a minty nuance to the thyme-like herbal notes juicy black cherry fruit, wood smoke and a savoury finish. 14% alc. $56.99. 14Jul2010.

Forrest Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deeply coloured yet still translucent with a hue tending towards black cherry,. A mouthfilling wine with juicy raspberries and blackberries, soft velvety tannins, hints of chocolate and a spicy flourish to the savoury finish where some mushroom and dried herb nuances come through. Would be a terrific accompaniment to Coq au Vin. 13% alc. $28. 16Aug2011.
A lovely ruby colour with moderate density. With a smoky, savouriness through the chocolate and cherry scent, it smells intriguing and complex. In the palate there's red fruits, smoky oak, herbs, silky tannins and a smooth chocolatey finish with starts to fade, then stops to linger a while. Develops beautifully in the bottle over several days later with a lovely savoury complexity, chocolate, fruitcake cherries and underlying nutty spice. Very nice. 13% alc. $28.00. 4Oct2011.

Frizzell Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deep ruby, violet. Smoky savoury aromas embossed with dried herbs and concentrated plum and black cherry fruit are more opulent than the dry taste would suggest. It's a gamey, savoury wine with a herbal backbone, velvety-textured tannins, cake spices an, dark plummy fruit and hints of anise in the background. Best matched with food than for drinking on its own. Lamb chops are good. 14% alc. $23.99. 27May2010.

Gladstone Vineyard Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Garnet red, Aromatic with scents of sweet earth, thyme and herb flowers. Generous and fruity to the taste with a deep smoky savoury richness and though light in colour, it's deep in flavour, reminding me of savoury gamey Martinborough styles. There's a 'pretty' character to the wine. It's fine textured, focused and clean with a well-balanced fruity sweetness. Very good. 14.7% alc. $45.00. 2Aug2011.
A deep strawberry garnet with flashes of ruby. Vanilla and cherry on the nose and finely textured, silky and seamless with harmonious savoury oak and bittersweet cherry with a touch of strawberry. There's a velvety cosy feel to the long fine finish, which has a lovely zing of acidity, peacocks tail flair. Delicious. 14.7% alc. $45. 16Aug2011.

Hawkshead Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deep dark red. Smoky scented with fragrant cherries - intense. A ripe savoury wine with some bittersweet cherry fruit, plum and tamarillo, firm tannins and a flourish of rose hips and vibrant cake spice on the full-bodied lasting finish. Succulent and long. 14% alc. $48. 16Aug2011.

Hawkshead First Vines Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Youthful pinky red. Concentrated on the nose with cake spice, orange peel, warm sappy oak and mocha and equally concentrated flavours. It's spicy, and savoury with black cherries, chocolate and mocha. Lots of juicy appeal, then a profound savoury undercurrent that drives the flavours. Has so much more finesse that the 2008 of the label. 14% alc. $45.00. 12May2011.

Hunter's Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deeply translucent garnet red. Smoky, savoury smelling with lovely vinosity to the scent. Medium-bodied with fine tannins, bittersweet fruit, rhubarb and sweetness to the finish with an earthy savoury depth. An easy-going wine, but seemed a little simple in the tasting. .Greatly improves with time in the bottle. Decant and aerate for best results 14% alc. $24.90. 4Oct2011.

Jackson Estate Vintage Widow Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) The colour is an opaque black-red with a striking intensity and the ripe cherry and chocolate scent is inviting and voluptuousness. This initially seems a big wine, a rich wine, an oaky spicy wine with plums and cherries making it juicy throughout yet the savoury nature of the variety nature shines through. There's a lovely infusion of woody herbs, tamarillo and smoky bacon with an underlying citrussy tang and a long savoury finish. A thought-provoking wine with firm tannins yet a velvety smooth mouthfeel. 14% alc. $35.00. 3Jul2011.

Julicher Estate Martinborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Smoke, cherry and chocolate aromas with mushroom nuances infusing through. Quite oaky to the taste and fruit that sits in that bittersweet spectrum with a juicy inflection, perhaps some dried herbs and tea. Quite dry with strawberry and guava fruit and a long persistent but delicate finish. 14.8% alc. $48.00. 2Aug2011.
Strawberry garnet, quite light in appearance. Strawberry nuances on the gently smoky aroma and savoury and spicy to the taste with fine tannins. While it looks light in colour it compounds in flavour with creamy oak supporting plum and Morella cherry fruit and the finish is succulent and long. 14.8% alc. $48. 16Aug2011.
Dark ruby red in colour, much deeper in appearance (than the Milcrest) with a gentle smoky aroma, and so seductive to the taste. Ripe, juicy, fruity, savoury, earthy, spicy and gamey with a smooth, silky texture. A beautiful wine, dare I say sexy! 14.8% alc. $36.99. 14Sep2011.

Julicher 99 Rows Martinborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Youthful looking purple Burgundy red. A hint of mulled wine spice on the nose with cherries, plums and a savoury accent. First impression in the mouth of this pretty, floral wine is of crisp cherry fruit with a savoury richness and a dry finish. It has a meaty depth and a lasting finish with the ripe cherry fruit surging at the end. A young, tight wine but ultra impressive already. 14% alc. $27.99. 12May2010.
With smoky bacon, mushrooms and black cherry on the nose, this succulent juicy wine is gamey and savoury with delicious cracked berry fruit, hints of spice and a sweet smoky oak finish. Very, very good and outstanding for the price. 14% alc. $27.99. 15Sep2010.
Ruby-garnet in hue, quite translucent in appearance. Immediately the smoky, savoury, plum-like aromas make you think further north. A savoury, structured wine and though light in colour, it has considerable depth with firmness to the tannins, plum and ripe cherry-guava fruit and a pleasing spice and anise-like herb infusion. Long-lasting with a seemingly luscious finish, it's easy to see why it's a gold medal winner. 14% alc. $25.99 4May2011.

Kate Radburnd Vine Velvet Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) A little stalky on the nose with a sweet dried herb scent, quite lifted in the palate with a fine texture, floral musky notes and a mushroomy depth. A lovely lighter floral style with a beetroot/pomegranate juiciness and hints of bacon, the finish persists and the aftertaste lingers with hints of cake spice and macerated cherries. While it seems quite light, match it to bacon-wrapped steak topped with mushrooms and gosh, it's perfect. 13.5% alc. $17.00. 3Jun2011.

Kiritea Martinborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc)This light garnet ruby-hued Pinot has smoky savoury aromas tinged with strawberry and cherry that lead into a medium-bodied silky textured savoury palate with woody herbs propping up the backbone and richness of bittersweet fruit. A lovely rush of cake spice lingers on the finish. 14.2% alc. $19.99 10Nov2010.

Lowburn Ferry Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Aromatic with wild berries and smoky oak the alluring perfume of this rich, juicy, deep ruby purple coloured wine leads into a velvety textured, gamey, savoury palate with herbs and spice, plum and cherries and even a suggestion of cranberry. The savoury flavours are underpinned with mushroom, forest floor and wild thyme, the tannins are supple and a lovely seam of acidity adds brightness and flare to the finish. 14% alc. $47.99. 22Sep2010.

Lowburn Ferry Central Otago Skeleton Creek Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) A deep dark wine both in colour and taste. A rich, succulent, luscious-smelling wine with a chocolatey sweetness, black cherry and thyme. In the mouth it's a dark savoury number from whoa to go. It's smoky, almost charry with firm grippy tannins then juicy ripe blackberry and cherry fruit pushes through. A powerful pinot with a slightly earthy leathery undercurrent, I'd like to see those tannins unlock and soften. 14% alc. $34.95. 3Jun2011.

Maggie's Vineyard Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) A savoury and concentrated smelling pinot with a lovely depth to the flavour. Tasted first in a lineup of six, it's very exciting and sets the bar high with its plush, smooth, rounded texture and fresh, juicy, spicy flavours. There's some nice red tones amongst the fruit, a touch of anise-like spices, herbs on the finish and a meaty richness that lingers. 13.5% alc. $? 3Jun2011.

Martinborough Vineyards Te Tera Martinborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deep ruby with a black core, this is smoky and savoury smelling with black cherry flavours enhanced by integrated spicy oak, a meaty richness and forest floor complexity. With its beautifully fine tannin structure it has lots going on for it and could be another gold medal winner for this label. 14% alc. $26.99. 11Aug2010.
Rich garnet ruby in colour, aromas of maraschino and fruitcake with smoky savoury oak and juicy flavours of cherry, spice and a touch of chocolate all supported by a lovely silky-textured savoury backbone and an earthy richness to the finish. Lovely. 5 stars. 14% alc. $25.99 10Nov2010.

Mission Estate Reserve Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deep maroon red in colour with a vibrant, floral, rose petal, cherry and 'framboise' perfume, this is classic savoury Pinot Noir with a 'crushed velvet' texture and supple tannins. Made from fruit grown in Pisa (80%) and Bendigo (20%), it has deep flavours of black cherry and plum with dried woody herbs and a fine flourish of acidity adding brightness to the lasting finish, which has very good length. A very good buy. 14.5% alc. $19.99. 26Jan2011.

Mondillo Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deep dark red, radiant in appearance. On the nose there's deep smoky oak and red berries and the flavour is packed with concentrated, juicy, red and black cherries, orange peel, smoke and spice. It's smooth and velvety with hints of chocolate on the bright lifted finish – a very ripe Pinot Noir that epitomises Central Otago – it cannot fail to please. 14.5% alc. $39.99 17Nov2010.

Montana Living Land Series Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Ruby / maroon with some density to its appearance. Rich and savoury on the nose, perhaps a little brooding to start but opens up with time to reveal black cherry and cake spice welling up from within. It's reasonably powerful and concentrated with firm velvety tannins, underlying smoky oak, violets, black cherry, hints of cinnamon and maybe even a inkling of orange zest. The finish is long and savoury with stewed spiced tamarillo as the wine lingers. Succulent yet serious Pinot Noir at an affordable price. 14.5% alc. $19.95. 20Aug2010.

Mt Beautiful Cheviot Hills Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Ruby translucent appearance. Cherry and herbs on the nose. Savoury, almost gamey in palate with bright red berry fruit, underlying acidity and grainy tannins but later quite silky and savoury. Something a little odd in there (stalky?), but the lingering aftertaste redeems it. 14% alc. $32.95. 5Nov2010.

Mt Hector Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Ruby garnet in colour with aromas of bittersweet red fruit steeped in mulled wine - I get hints of strawberry, tamarillo and bittersweet cherries. Soft, savoury and spicy to the taste with gentle oak, cherry fruit, woody herbs and bright flush of mulled wine spice - cinnamon, clove and star anise - with freshness to finish, it really hits the spot. 13.5% alc. $12.99 - $16.99. 3Jun2010.

Nautilus Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deep ruby garnet in colour, this is savoury and smoky on the nose with bittersweet fruit, dried woody herbs and cedar pushing through. Dark sweet fruit permeates through the plush-textured palate with a hint of chocolate binding the concentrated blackberry, raspberry and cherry fruit together. A drinker’s Pinot Noir, it's juicy and succulent with cake spices and an underlying savouriness bringing it all together. An underpinning of acidity hints that it has the potential to age 14% alc. $39.00. 3Jun2011.

Olssen's Jackson Barry Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) A lovely spicy wine, deep in colour, captivatingly aromatic, full-bodied in stature and compounding in flavour with cherry, plum, savoury oak, supple tannins and a long, rich, savoury, gamey finish that has underlying acidity that exudes brightness - expanding like the flare of a peacock's tail. Impeccably refined. Full of class. 13.5% alc. $52.99. 5Jan2011.
Deep black cherry red, youthful in appearance. A tantalising smelling wine with a bounty of chocolate and cherries on the nose and in the vibrant palate. It's ripe, smooth and creamy with a beautifully balanced savoury backbone and classic wild thyme. Concentrated and powerful yet showing its youth with its grainy edge and underlying acidity giving the peacocks tail flare! 13.5% alc. $43.99. 26Oct2011.

Olssen's Slapjack Creek Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Opaque ruby red, perfumed and spicy with savoury oak and a brooding earthy, gamey depth. Generous fruit intensity of stewed plums and spiced cherries and a fine edge to the velvety tannins, perhaps the slightest suggestion of grip – a hint to its cellaring potential that based on past vintages could go 7 to 10 years. Only made in the best years and this is truly the best. 13.5% alc. $94.99. 7Sep2011.

Opawa Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Transparent garnet in hue with a bouquet that is savoury and just a little smoky, the scent is excitingly pinotesque. The palate is fruity with a slight suggestion of raspberry jubes giving it a confectionary overtone, yet the backbone is distinctly savoury. The second label of Nautilus. 13.9% alc. $29. 18Jan2011.

Palliser Estate Martinborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Dark ruby garnet. Smoky, earthy, and a little varnishy on the nose with bloody game meats and venison. This is quite an oaky wine with a gamey and savoury backbone, firm tea-like tannins and a touch of citrus bringing the ripe jammy fruit into balance. Lovely long finish and excellent cellaring potential. 14.5% alc. $52. 16Aug2011.

Peregrine Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Dark ruby/garnet red with a vivid, intensity. Creamy oak brims forth on the nose with subtle hints of strawberry, cherry and earthy savoury notes adding to the allure of the bouquet. Silky textured with spicy oak, a gamey, forest floor undercurrent and red and black cherry and plum fruit that is so juicy and succulent it simply wows the palate. Add to this a lovely dense structure and a savoury, smoky complexity and it really is very good wine. 14% alc. $35.99. 1Dec2010.

Rock Ferry Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Cherries and chocolatey oak on the nose and velvety textured, mouth filling and dense to the taste with a bright acidic seam that cuts through the fat and keeps the wine clean. With richness and textural appeal, a dry meaty backbone and a savoury bittersweet finish, it is quietly intriguing. 13.7% alc. $39.00. 2Aug2011.

Rockburn Central Otago Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) With fragrant aromas and spicy flavours accented with wild thyme, bittersweet cherry and cranberry fruit, this dry wine is ripe, sweet and juicy with a chocolate and strawberry mid-palate richness and an earthy, savoury, gamey finish where a hint of orange zest adds brightness and a lovely hint of tarragon lingers. 14% alc. 7Sep2010.
A rich, deep black red colour, this has a deep, earthy, savoury aroma infused with leather and chocolate and it's quite savoury, gamey and just a little leathery in the palate with moderately firm tannins. It seems quite tight to start but opens up beautifully and becomes more and more generous with the chocolate detected on the nose combining with plump black cherries on the long, dry, lingering finish. 14% alc. $40. 5Mar2011.

Russian Jack Martinborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Translucent garnet/Burgundy red with hints of smoky beetroot, almond and stewed plum on the nose, this is deliciously savoury tasting with fine silky tannins, an earthy depth to the wild strawberry and dried herb flavours and becomes more and more complex with every sip. 14% alc. $16.99. 11Aug2010.

Sacred Hill Halo Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Translucent garnet coloured, with cherry aromas and savoury flavours. Silky, rounded and juicy with bittersweet cherry and strawberry fruit and an earthy depth, an easy style to drink and enjoy in a social situation. 14% alc. $19.99. 21Sep2011.

Sacred Hill Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Youthful in appearance with some depth to the hue. Cherry pie aromas with a backing of herb. Quite sweet and goupy to the taste but lacks pinot definition and has a musty, or is it a meaty character that detracts. 14/20. 13.5% alc. $20.90. 2Feb2010.

Sacred Hill Prospector Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Dark rich ruby red with a deep brooding plummy aroma that has a vanillin oak nuance and a succulent sexy savoury depth. Tasting quite youthful with a firm, muscular tannin structure balanced by vinous sweetness, this powerful wine made from Bannockburn fruit is quite different to the controversial 2006, which was from Lowburn. Spicy, concentrated and intense with black fruit, dried herbs and quintessential savouriness, it begs cellaring right now. 14% alc. $54.99. 21Sep2011.

Saint Clair Pioneer Block Block 4 Sawcut Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Rich, voluptuous, spicy, black cherry and a lovely savoury richness. Full-bodied and savoury with a funky, forest floor intrigue. A full-bodied pinot with firm (for pinot) tannins and a finish that tapers off gently. Fruit in the strawberry/raspberry spectrum adds brightness to the savoury flavours, with a creamy veneer as it lingers. 13.5% alc. $33.50. 2Aug2011.

Saint Clair Pioneer Block 5 Bull Block Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deep black cherry red coloured, with a jubey scent, a hint of chocolate too. Ripe, soft and creamy with bacon infusing the savoury, spicy undercurrent and fruit that’s in the bittersweet cherry-guava spectrum. Supple tannins and a long savoury finish that brings the fruity sweetness into balance. Easy and drinkable. 14% alc. $33.50. 2Aug2011.

Sileni Cellar Selection Hawkes Bay Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Ruby hued with a smoke-infused cherry aroma, it's spicy to the taste with underlying acidity, bittersweet fruit reminiscent of Throaties lollies, sweet smoky oak, grainy edged tannins and concentration to the lingering tamarillo and smoky bacon finish. 12.5% alc. $21.95. 20Aug2010.

Sisters Ridge North Canterbury Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Savoury with cranberry scents and a suggestion of herbs. A light to medium-bodied style that's silky and savoury, gamey and earthy with underlying acidity adding zestiness, and intriguing bittersweet fruits with vinous sweetness to finish. Like a Villages Burgundy, it is pretty obvious as to what it is. 13.5% alc. $24.95. 17Nov2010.

Spinyback Nelson Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) The aroma is perfumed, a little floral with sweet mushroom tones and cedar. The fruit is quite primary with hints of macerated strawberry and redcurrant, then tending toward succulent black cherry. But quite herbal / stalky in a way and with powdery tannins that want to etch the teeth. Then the aftertaste kicks in and leaves behind flavours that are quite appealing - kind of a mushroomy, meaty funky savouriness, creamy oak, black and red fruits, dried herbs and rose/violet florals. 13.5% alc. $17.95. 3Jun2011.

Stoneleigh Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Dark in colour yet light in stature. A combination of strawberry, raspberry and cherry on the nose and a slight herbal flavour with a citrussy edge. Medium-bodied swith a smooth, silky texture and a savoury finish, I initially it seemed to lack a little oomph, but a very good accompaniment to lamb. However tasting the following day, it had garnered complexity and had all the oomph it needed. 14% alc. $33. 18Jan2011.

Supper Club Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Ruby-hued, translucent in appearance, it's savoury and earthy with a little bit of dirt, bittersweet red fruit and silky tannins, a temptress as it compounds in flavour. It doesn't have the richness and density you'd expect from the Cromwell Basin, but has the savouriness you'd expect from much further north. Made by PW Wines. 13.5% alc. $19.99 20Apr2011.

Takutai Nelson Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Quite deep in colour with an aroma that's concentrated and savoury with a depth of sweet fruit and thyme. Moderately full-bodied, earthy and savoury, with violet, plum, cherry, cedar and crushed velvet tannins. There's a zesty fruit brightness and a tingling spicy oak finish. A succulent impression with good length. 13.7% alc. $13.95. 3Jun2011.

Te Mania Nelson Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deep translucent garnet red with considerable depth. Savoury aromas with lovely vinosity and raspberry and cherry fruit. Savoury and supple with black and red fruit flavours, a modicum of grip to the tannins and a long savoury finish with some interesting funk and bacon nuances coming through. Dry in style, not OTT, just very good. 13.5% alc. $21.99. 4Oct2011.

Te Mania Nelson Reserve Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Light red with moderate density. Intensely rich and concentrated with a beguiling ripe fruit scent. Sweet oak joins the tantalising potpourri of aromas and the taste is ripe and juicy with wonderful intensity of ripe black cherry and savoury earthy flavours with a spicy intonation and a lovely zing of brightness on the finish. Finely structured with soft, round tannins. 14% alc. $34.99. 2Aug2011.

Thornbury Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Inviting aroma of chocolate oak and cherry with a hint of wild thyme. Ripe, juicy and succulent to the taste with chocolate coated cherries, smoky savoury oak, wild thyme and just the right amount of spice on the finish with a touch of acidity that adds brightness. Juicy with lots of appeal. 14.5% alc. $27. 16Aug2011.
Black cherry red with a rich plummy aroma framed with savoury oak and vanilla. Full-bodied and warm textured with seductively supple tannins, juicy black cherry fruit, mulled wine spices, smoky oak and a lingering suggestion of rosehips. Lovely drinking. 14.5% alc. $27.99. 26Oct2011.

Tohu Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Deep in colour with savoury aromas and a juiciness to the lovely, smoky, savoury flavours that are well balanced with silky tannins, and edge of tomato-like acidity and a pleasing suggestion of tarragon adding subtle anise to the finish. A juicy wine, with a pleasing veneer, I rate it very good and excellent drinking. 13.5% alc. $27.95. 18Jan2011.

Waipara Hills Equinox Waipara Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Dense ruby with a maroon-like hue and an aroma that is expressive and powerful with spice, savoury oak, and macerated mulled-wine fruit. The power carries through to the palate where a fruit driven sweetness balances the deep, gamey, earthy savouriness. With its silk-edged velvety tannins and succulent richness, it has a funky sexy allure. 14% alc. $29.99. 23Mar2011.
Translucent ruby. A rich, cakey wine with a nut and dried cherry aroma. Ultra smooth in the palate with creamy oak, black cherry, a touch of red guava and chocolate with a well-balanced underlying citrusy tang, a long savoury finish and a fruitcake cherry burst at the end. Fine and silky with great definition. 14% alc. $29.90. 3Jul2011.

Waipara Hills Waipara Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Light Burgundy red in colour and medium-bodied in palate weight, this has an earthy, savoury scent that hints of macerated cherry and spiced plums. It's fine and silky in texture with cherry and raspberry fruits and a tingle of spice on the long, savoury finish. Sam called this an 'elegant style'. 13.5% alc. $16.99 17Nov2010.

Wild South Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Showing a little development in the hue, which makes you think it is older than it is,the aromas are earthy and savury with a hint of barnyard and the flavours are with tamarillo and cherry with a spicy sweetness with underlyng acidity. A lighter style. 14% alc. $18. 17Aug2010.

West Brook Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Moderate depth of garnet ruby hue and an aroma that is savoury yet chocolatey too. With a fine texture, yet also with a meaty richness, this is a beef consommé wine with a herbal edge and a savoury depth. Then a plush, chocolatey richness comes through with mocha and cherry. It finishes quite fruity while retaining the quintessential savouriness. 14% alc. $24.99. 23Mar2011.

Wooing Tree Beetlejuice Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) The colour is deep, rich ruby red and the aromas are savoury and smoky with herbs, pomegranate concentrate and cherries. This is plush, generous Pinot Noir brimming with concentrated red fruits that are so succulent and juicy it's hard to resist. But there's enough grip to the velvety-textured tannins and a little funk to the savoury backbone to make this deadly serious and these characters will become more pronounced with cellaring. 5 stars. 14.8% alc. $28. 30Jan2011.
Saturated deep ruby, bright in appearance. Aromas radiate smoky, savoury oak and ripe cherry. A lovely, ripe, juicy pinot with succulent cherry and plum fruit, plush velvety tannins, oak spice and well-balanced smoky savouriness. Another star from this Cromwell vineyard and drinking beautifully right now. 14.5% alc. $25.99 11May2011.

Wooing Tree Central Otago Pinot Noir 2009 (sc) Youthful, ruby garnet with some opacity to the hue. Perfumed with dry thyme and smoky oak, it's a dry wine with cake spices, bittersweet cherry and chocolate that adds generosity to the flavour. It's silky-textured, savoury and intense with great focus and drive through the palate and lovely dried herb notes coming through as the wine lingers. 14.5% alc. $39.99. 20Jul2011.
Deep ruby with moderate translucency. Gorgeous aroma of fruits of the forest, jelly babies, musk, mossy forest floor, sweet spices and savoury oak – I could smell it all day. Gorgeous velvet-suede tannin structure, sweet strawberry and cherry fruit, perhaps red currants and Roses chocolate box, Beautifully balanced and seamless with a sweet savouriness, and violet and musk adding allure to the finish. Drink or cellar. 14.5% alc. $44. 16Aug2011.
This deep plum/ruby red wine smells chocolatey from the outset and tastes rich, ripe and vibrant with a sensuous, seductive, velvety texture and juicy flavours of spiced cherries, chocolate, vanillin oak and a lovely savoury backbone infused with thyme. 14.5% alc. $39.99. 26Oct2011.