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.

Jules Taylor Marlborough Pinot Noir 2007 (sc) Deep purple-red. Smoky and savoury with black cherry and spiced-fill aromatics, this rich, soft, powerful juicy style is earthy and savoury from the outset with cracked red berries, chocolate, cherry, a hint of smoky bacon and just a touch of game. Medium to full-bodied, silky in texture and long in flavour, it has well balanced acidity, a long, smoky aftertaste and excellent length. 14% alc. $31.99.5Mar2008.

Triplebank Awatere Valley Pinot Noir 2007 - Marlborough (sc) Bright pinky-red with reasonable density to the colour, this screams sweet and savoury. There's upfront fruitiness yet it is rich and savoury, vibrantly spicy and varietal earthy with a touch of game, juicy fruit and a smoky finish, this is a luscious style for pinot. A very good precursor for promise of the vintage. 13% alc. $19.99. 6Feb2008.

Akarua Cadence Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) A deep maroon red with youthful brightness, there's a freshly baked cherry pie nose and ripe, juicy, savoury flavours infused with stewed cherry, spiced plum and chocolaty oak with supple tannins, underlying acidity, earthy mushroom notes and a sprinkling of wild thyme flower. Full-bodied with moderately high alcohol, this youthful wine, which has had 11 months in French oak, is still evolving. Right now it's very powerful just on its own. 14% alc. $39.99. 9Jan2008.

Ata Rangi 'Crimson' Martinborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Rich red in the glass. With fruit cake cherries and blackcurrant aromas carrying through to the velvety textured flavours this 'pretty' wine, with musky floral notes and hints of dried herbs, has a reasonable amount of power with an underlying fresh acidic bite that adds to its overall charm. The bright yet savoury finish is long and lasting, the spicy oak is integrated, the fruit is ripe, it's ready to drink, it's easy to drink and it's definitely a real crowd pleaser. 13.5% alc. $28. 5Jan2008.

Ata Rangi Martinborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Savoury with a sweetish overlay, this stylish, refined, full-bodied pinot has a touch of gamey, savoury funk with fruit in the cherry and tamarillo spectrum, smoky bacon-like oak, spice and hints of anise. Although quite youthful and saying, "I need more time," it has wonderful mouthfeel and texture. The pedigree is definitely there. 13.5% alc. $72.99. 6Feb2008.

Auntsfield Hawk Hill Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) A bright ruby colour introduces this earthy savoury style with a black cherry and blackberry fruit sweetness, subtle spicy oak, silky tannins and long, savoury, full-bodied finish. 13.5% alc. $45. 9Oct2007.

Bannock Brae Barrel Selection Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep purple red with hints of chocolate to the creamy oak and sweet fruit aromas and powerful, savoury, meaty flavours with ripe red and black fruits, a dried herb complexity, musky spice, mocha, sweet oak, plush velvety tannins and an earthy, gamey, savoury depth. Powerful and grunty with immediate oomph and appeal, it's a terrific expression of Bannockburn Pinot Noir. 14.5% alc. $45.99. 26Sep2007.

Bannock Brae Goldfields Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep Burgundy red with bright purple-plum edges, this generous pinot noir is full of the sweet scents of vanillin oak and ripe plummy fruit with savoury nuances and hints of chocolate. The juicy ripe taste lives up to the promise. It is sweet, spicy and savoury with macerated plum and cherry fruit and a sprinkling of herbs. An opulent, velvety textured Central Otago style. 14% alc. $26.99. 16Apr2008.

Big Sky Te Muna Road Martinborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Lovely smoky, cherry notes on the nose, rich and savoury in the palate with silky tannins, smoky cherry and a flourish of spice, it has an earthy depth with red and black fruit. A very appealing wine with length and lasting flavour. 2Sep2007.

Blind River Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Moderate depth of purple red colour. Gorgeously enticing sweet smoky, savoury fragrance with chocolate and cherry adding to the sexy musky allure. It's sweetish to the taste - more so than I would have expected, but the apparent sweetness melds in beautifully to the spicy savouriness, red fruit and nutty oak of this creamy textured, velvety-tannined mouthful. There's a slight gamey earthy character too and the finish is long and svelte. A very enjoyable Pinot Noir. 14% alc. $37. 13Nov2007.

Blind Trail Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Semi-opaque purple garnet. Hauntingly smoky with spiced cherry on the nose. Ripe and juicy in the palate with a velvety texture, tart red fruits, hints of plums, spicy oak, dried herbs and a suggestion of rose petal on the perfumed finish. There's a lovely earthy savouriness to the wine, which delivers exceptional quality and amazing complexity for its $23 price tag. Try it with bangers - beef, herb and garlic sausages are sensational. All Felton Road fruit with 8 months in oak, 30% new. 14% alc. $23.00 19Aug2007.

Churton Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (c) A deep colour hints to the richness within the glass. It's quite closed on the nose at first but full of vibrancy in the ripe, creamy, spicy palate with savoury oak, red guava and black cherry fruit, silky tannins and power, richness and depth. Fantastic length that shows the long term potential of the wine. 13.5% alc. $40. Cork. 9Oct2007.

Clayridge Excalibur Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Rich, spicy and savoury - mulled wine spices like cloves, cinnamon mingle with orange peel and smoky oak. Full-bodied and spicy with some earthy funk. Young and awkward. Decanting recommended. Tasted from the same bottle two days later it has become warm, rounded and sensual with slight gripp to the velvety tannins. It is smoky and savoury on the nose with an infusion of cherry and a hint of florals while the dominant taste of mulled wine spices the other are now integrating and secondary. A thinking wine with lovely fruit sweetness that so suits the funky earthy savouriness and reasonable acidity to ensure its cellaring potential. 14.5% alc. $38. 3Jan2008.

Coopers Creek SV Gibson's Run Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) This is rich and savoury on the nose with spiced black cherry and a touch of herbs and succulent, savoury and spicy to the taste with underlying acidity adding brightness. It has all the hallmarks of a complex PN with all sorts of intricacies evolving on the finish. 13% alc. $25. 13Oct2007.

Cornish Point Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc)
Ruby garnet with a deep translucency, the concentrated inviting aromas smell of wood-smoked bacon and complex red fruits. It's dry, spicy and savoury to the taste with crisp red fruits, smoky oak, silky tannins and a long juicy aftertaste with a delicate briar rose muskiness that has a prickly kick to the plummy finish. All the fruit from this wine comes from the Cornish Point Vineyard at the confluence of the Kawerau and Clutha Rivers. 14.5% alc. $42.99. 15Aug2007.

De Vine Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep in colour with chocolate and dark berries on the nose and red guava and black cherry fruit in the savoury, earthy, gamey and ever so slightly funky, palate. A deep, complex, brooding wine with just a little bit of grip to the tannins, underlying acidity and a touch of spice, it becomes quite creamy with that hint of chocolate detected on the nose, showing again. With its lovely mouthfeel and excellent length. it will appeal to drinkers of the tighter Burgundy look-alikes. Gibbston Valley fruit. 13.5% alc. $39.99. 17Oct2007.
Deep black red with earthy, smoky, leathery, funky scents joining chocolate, black cherries and plums, this powerful, firm tannined wine tastes spicy and savoury with deep, earthy, brooding complex flavours. It's funky and intriguing with anise-like spices, black cherries, plums and a chocolatey richness to the lingering aftertaste. The vibrant fruit perfectly offsets the dark, funky savouriness. 13.5% alc. $35.99. 21Nov2007.

Drylands Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep ruby, translucent in appearance. Ripe fruitcake cherries on the nose with a backing of smoky spicy oak, medium to full-bodied in style with an earthy savouriness and some complexity. There's a crunchy crispness to the lingering finish and vanillin oak and floral notes linger. Matured in new and seasoned French oak for 11 months. 13.5% alc. $18.95. 7Jul2007.

Escarpment The Edge Pinot Noir 2006 - Martinborough (sc) Dark cherry red, almost opaque but not quite, it has a cherry jam and violet aroma and tastes soft, ripe and juicy with a savoury, herbal backbone balanced by cherries, fruit cake, smoky oak and vanilla with a spicy kick to the finish. Made in an approachable, 'drink now' style. 14.5% alc. $22.99. 1Aug2007.

Fairmont Estate Admirals Hill Pinot Noir 2006 - Wairarapa (sc) Deep dark cherry/purple red. Smoky, savoury and earthy on the nose with a lifted, citrussy nuance and rich and flavoursome to the taste - it's earthy, savoury and gamey with juicy plum and red berry fruit, spicy savoury oak, silky tannins and a powerful finish. Smooth and harmonious throughout with a hint of pepper as it lingers. 14% alc. $20.99. 11Jul2007.

Fairmont Block One Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep ruby red. Gorgeous aroma of cherries and herbs with hints of rose petals and nutty oak. Ripe and spicy in the palate with an earthy savoury richness, juicy red and black fruits and a harmonious silky textured flow with just the right amount of acidity to add a zesty flare to the finish and persistence to the aftertaste. Gold Medal standard and top wine of 19th August tasting. 14% alc. $28. 19Aug2007.
Bright in its black red colour, this smells rich, smoky, savoury and complex with a touch of dark chocolate to the scent and is even more complex in its mouthfilling taste. Dark red and black fruits, spice, earth, a hint of leather, firm silky tannins and fruit brightness to the long, long finish with an expansive ‘peacocks tail’ flare, it's a beautiful expression of pinot noir. 13.5% alc. $29.99. 17Oct2007.

Felton Road Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep, ruby garnet with an almost opaque core, it is immediately mesmeric on the nose with aromas of chocolate, cherries and a nuance of musky florals. This is a thick textured, full-bodied, sweet flavoured pinot with a smoky, savoury undercurrent, velvety tannins, an earthy depth, a touch of anise like spices and a brightness to the lifted finish that goes on and on. Very smart. Moreish. 14.5% alc. $51.99. 4Jul2007.
Deep purple ruby, almost opaque in the core of the glass, the alluring aromas smell smoky and savoury with aromatic clove and anise-like spices and even a hint of chocolate. Deep and complex to the taste with spicy oak, black cherry fruit and an earthy savoury depth, the subtle tannins have a slightly grainy texture and a suggestion of bitter chocolate adds richness to the lingering finish that has excellent length. 14.5% alc. $51.99. 15Aug2007.

Felton Road Block 3 Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep pinky purple with a black core, the Block 3 has a tantalising pinot perfume of smoky, savoury oak, musk and spiced black cherry. Spicy and savoury with a gorgeous swathe of sweet fruit in the palate, it's earthy and gamey with hints of spiced mushroom and the fragrance of dried thyme gracing the aftertaste. A wine of delicious depth, complexity and balance with the exotic spices adding additional allure and delicate hints of orange zest on the finish, the firm tannins and underlying acidity suggest the wine will be long lived. From a single block within the original Elms Vineyard. 14.5% alc. $76.00. 15Aug2007.

Gem Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2006(sc) Smoky, dark cherry, appealing aromatics. Spicy, earthy, savoury palate with a little bit of strawberry creeping through and a delicately spicy spritz. Fresh and bright. From the Petrie Vineyard in the Wairarapa. 123% alc. $35. 3Sep2007.

Gibbston Valley Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deeply translucent purple red with intensity to the hue, this is smoky, savoury and lightly toasty on the nose with a bright, lifted palate that is full of sweet cherry and boysenberry fruits. A bigger, richer, riper wine with the gorgeous sweet fruit underpinned by dried herbs, smoke and earthy forest floor, a velvety texture and a long succulent savoury aftertaste. With its immediate appeal, everyone just loved it. 14% alc. $50.99. 27Feb2008.

Huia Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Lighter in colour than most Pinot Noirs in the room and a noticeably more cherry aroma - but a delicious savoury flavour with a light silky texture that belies the richness and depth of the wine. I call it 'pretty' and 'elegant' with cherry, sweet spices, hints of chocolate and an abundance of pinot noir charm. 13.5% alc. $36. 9Oct2007.

John Forrest Collection Waitaki Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Lovely perfumed aromatics of spiced cherries and violets and earthy, sweet mushroomy flavours with strawberry and black cherry fruit. Medium to full-bodied, silky textured, supple and savoury with a crispness to the lingering aftertaste, it's very appealing. I've noticed a deep spiciness to previous vintages of Waitaki origin pinot noirs, but I'm not getting it in this wine - the spiciness is there it's just more subtle and integrated. 14.1% alc. $60. 26Jul2007.

Julicher Estate Martinborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) There's a lovely glow to the deeply translucent ruby violet colour and an appealing charm to the floral yet meaty scent with subtle smoke, intriguing red guava, cherry and earthy, meaty flavours, a spicy overlay, a velvety texture and a hint of chocolate on the succulent yet savoury finish. Hints of violets and rose petals with a suggestion of dried herbs emerge and the aftertaste is long and memorable. 14% alc. $36.99. 3Oct2007.

Kim Crawford SP Rise-and-Shine Creek Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deeply coloured black red with purple tints, this big, juicy wine has a smooth, rich taste. Full of sweet chocolatey oak and cherries with soft acidity and velvety tannins, it's layered and complex with cigar smoke, earth and funk and a spicy flourish to the savoury finish with hints of dried herb and tar coming through too. You need to savour a big glass of this to discover all its fascinating intricacies. Bendigo region, Central Otago. 14.5% alc. $26.99. 5Dec2007.

Kiritea Martinborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Ruby garnet with a deep translucency to the colour. Ripe and succulent, gamey and savoury with a hint of smoke on the nose, it's savoury and spicy to the taste with cherry and raspberry fruit, dried herbs, a touch of smoke and soft, silky tannins. Very tasty and outstanding value for the price. 14% alc. $18.99. 10Oct2007.

Kumeu River Pinot Noir 2006 - Kumeu, Auckland (sc) Garnet with ruby hues. The nose is deep, complex and funky with glimpses of cherry fruit backed up by smoky savoury oak and hints of anise/liquorice spice. It's smoky, savoury, gamey and earthy in the palate with the savouriness reasonably dominating the fruit at this stage. Fine textured, silky tannined, very dry with mid palate richness and a vinous sweetness and a floral nuance to the finish, which leaves a very satisfied mouthfeel. 13.5% alc. $37.95. 12Jul2007.

Main Divide Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Dense ruby with crimson edges, chocolate and savoury oak tempt the nose and lead into a ripe, flavoursome palate with chocolate, cherries, savoury oak and anise-like spices with a hint of dried rosemary on the finish. It's soft, fruity and creamy with a silky tannin structure. Deliciously approachable already. 14.5% alc. $21.99. 6Jun2007.

Main Divide Tehau Selection Waipara Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) A complex, fine textured, silky pinot - a wine of finesse and class. It's earthy and savoury with firm tannins, hints of Burgundy-like funk, a touch of chocolate and sweet plum and tart cherry fruit balanced by a fine seam of acidity. A stunning pinot noir at the price point. 14% alc. $33.99. 6Feb2008.

Maude Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep ruby garnet. Perfumed soapy aromas give way to fruit cake cherries and spice scent while the lifted, spicy flavours and cherry and plum fruit have a deep earthy, savoury, smoky and slightly tarry undercurrent. It's quite a gutsy wine with firm tannins, a hint of stewed tamarillo loitering in the background and another bright flourish of spice on the concentrated, long, savoury, full-bodied finish. Fruit sourced from four subregions. 14.5% alc. $32.99. 11Jul2007.

Montana Terroir Series Forgotten Valley Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deeply translucent, blackish-Burgundy with a bright black cherry edged rim and smoky savoury, chocolatey aromas that have an earthy depth. Just a little sharp in the palate on the first taste but the underlying acidity is immediately balanced by the powerful, sweet-fruited, spicy flavours with a hint of lavender and wild thyme nuances amongst the black cherry and spiced red fruits. Smooth and velvety with a touch of lusciousness on the mouthfilling velvety finish and fantastic length, yet still very youthful with all the signs it will go a long way. 13% alc. $31.99. 27Feb2008.

Mt Difficulty Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Bright in colour, it's a little more floral but not as intensely perfumed as the preceding two wines. Cherry and violet scents and light fruity flavours with an earthy, savoury, herbal undercurrent, grippy tannins and a citrussy bite. A tough wine to appreciate at this stage – perhaps it just need times to develop in the bottle. 14.5% alc. $37.99. 19Sep2007.

Nanny Goat Vineyard Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006(sc) Vivid purple crimson with a deep translucency to the hue. Aromatic herbal notes on nose and juicy plum and raspberry in palate with a rose petal and dried thyme musky overlay and a sweetness to the spicy finish. Very attractive despite the crisp, fresh, youthful nature of the wine. 13.5% alc. $35. 3Sep2007.

Nautilus Estate Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) A dark earthy savoury wine - deep and brooding. Smoky on the nose with sweet oak spice in the palate- it takes some time for the fruit to state its presence and it comes forth with a red fruit brightness. There's hint of strawberry and a touch of citrus from the underlying acidity with a chocolate flourish to the end. A complex Pinot Noir, with the pedigree to magnificently age. 14% alc. $40. 9Oct2007.

Nobilo Icon Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (c) Deep in colour, dark ruby with an almost opaque centre. Vanillin oak, cherries and sweet spices on the nose and rich, succulent, savoury flavours with slightly chunky velvety tannins, fruitcake spice, hints of milk chocolate and an earthy, brooding, mushroomy undercurrent. Full-bodied, tasty and long with a citrussy tang to the finish, it's very appealing from the outset. Matured in new and seasoned French oak for 12 months. 13.5% alc. $22.95. 7Jul2007.

Northrow Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Similar in colour to the Thornbury, but richer and more powerful in flavour. Smoky bacon joins bright, spicy, cherry and plum fruit with an underlying, earthy, savoury richness. A fleshy pinot with silky tannins, a touch of chocolate and a little more complexity from the extra year of age. 13.5% alc. $29.99. 19Sep2007.

Ra Nui Wairau Valley Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Dark ruby coloured, translucent appearance. Smoky, savoury, sweet mushroom and fruit cake cherry aromas and spiced cherries and red berry fruit flavours with a hints of liquorice, vanillin oak, forest floor, a flourish of acidity on the finish and a savoury, earthy, mushroomy depth. A clean, easy going, approachable, fruity, medium-bodied style. 13.8% alc. 7Jul2007.

Riverby Estate Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Savoury earthy aromas with a hint of musk and later a pretty, floral scent. Medium-bodied in style, light in its attack but becoming richer with hints of leather, mocha and a meaty finish. Quite silky in texture. Good commercial style but quite elegant and doesn't want food that overpowers it. 13% alc. $27.00 19Aug2007.

Rockburn Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep black garnet / ruby in colour, this is perfumed with wild herbs, black cherries and spicy smoky oak and tastes spicy and savoury with concentrated cherry and plum fruit, creamy oak and that intrinsic Central Otago wild thyme. It's underpinned by a tarry, savoury undercurrent and gravelly tannins and finishes with a gorgeous sweet fruit flourish. 13.7% alc. $34.99. 21Nov2007.

Rose Tree Cottage Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep crimson ruby tending to opaque in the core of the glass. Initially quite shy on the savoury nose, it opens up to reveal with smoky, earthy, slightly funky pinot scents. Beautifully poised with a silky tannin structure that imparts a lovely balanced flow to the smoky oak and sweet and savoury red fruit flavours. There's a brooding, earthy, mushroomy undercurrent, intrinsic herbal pinot characters and a spicy flourish with a brightness of red fruits on the lingering finish. Medium to full-bodied in style, matured in new and one-year-old French oak for 12 months. 13.5% alc. $27.95. 7Jul2007.

Ruby Bay Vineyard SV Young Vines Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep with a brightness to the colour, It's savoury, earthy and just a little leathery with a touch of spice, an undercurrent of herbs, fruit cake cherry and raspberry jubes on a smooth creamy texture. Light to medium-bodied, smooth and easy drinking with a residue of sweetness and warmth to the finish. 13.5% alc. $25. 29Oct2007.

Saint Clair Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Light ruby coloured, clear and bright. Aromatically scented with alluring smoky cherry and savoury spice, the aromatic traits carry through to the medium-bodied palate. Full of juicy, slightly tart red fruits and soft tannins, it's deliciously varietal, clean and well made. The back label says it is 'best matched with lamb' but with the chicken breasts stuffed with prunes and apricots and wrapped in bacon, it was totally delicious too. 13.5% alc. $20.95. 11Aug2007.

Saint Clair Pioneer Block 4 ‘Sawcut’ Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 Pinkish purple red with a brightness to the lustre, it's intriguingly perfumed with delicate hints of violets, smoky cedar and red fruits. The intrigue carries through to the spicy, savoury, juicy palate with fine tannins, an earthy complexity, a slightly charry backbone, bitter cherry and a dry savoury finish. Medium to full-bodied in style, it's well made and very tasty, but it would be hard to pick where in New Zealand this comes from. 14% alc. $30.99. 8Aug2007.

Saint Clair Vicars Choice Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Purple-tinged garnet. Soft and smoky with juicy black cherry and plum fruit, a touch of citrussy spice and a savouriness to the lingering finish. Lighter side of medium-bodied, easy drinking, well made and excellent value for the variety. 13.5% alc. $17.95. 11Aug2007.

Selaks Founders Reserve Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep ruby red. Quite complex and smoky with sweet vanillin oak and cherry on the nose and although the palate is smoky and savoury and there's an intrinsic herbal character underlying the wines, it seems sweet and confectionary-like in its cherry fruit flavours while charry oak lingers on the finish. Later, however, this wine really morphs into a different beast, it now seems intense and concentrated pinot noir with grainy tannins, a hint of pepper, thyme, mushrooms, fruits of the forest and a musky floral note to the succulent lingering finish. Medium to full-bodied in style, it was matured in new, one and two-year-old French oak for 12 months. 12% alc. $28.95. 7Jul2007.

Seresin Leah Pinot Noir 2006 - Marlborough (sc) Deep cherry guava red. Fragrant, smoky and savoury on the nose with a lovely floral depth and crisp, savoury, spicy flavours with crushed velvet tannins, slightly tart cherry and cranberry fruit, dried herbs, smoky bacon, an earthy undercurrent and the musky florals detected on the nose adding a lovely touch to the lingering finish. Medium to full-bodied in style with beautifully integrated French oak (just 15% new) playing a supporting role throughout, it's made from a myriad of pinot noir clones and seems to get more and more complex as the contents of the glass disappear. 13% alc. $33. 2Aug2007.

Stoneleigh Rapaura Series Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Ruby-garnet in colour with moderate depth, it's smoky and savoury on the nose with cherry and hints of chocolate that carry through to the silky textured palate. Strawberry and raspberry joins the cherry fruit and is underpinned by spicy sweet oak with hints of chocolate, a herbal fascination, and richness and length to the persistent, savoury finish. Medium to full-bodied and beautifully balanced with abundant pinot noir charm, it is an easy wine to appreciate and enjoy. 14% alc. $26.99. 17Oct2007.

Struggler's Flat Martinborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Youthful, vibrant, purple-red with good depth, not quite opaque. On the nose it smells savoury and lush and in the palate it's fruity and spicy with hints of anise, cherry and red guava fruit, savoury oak, velvety tannins, reasonably high acidity and a herbal depth to the earthy finish. 13.5% alc. $21.99. 4Apr2007.
Deep maroon red, dense, meaty and savoury wine with hints of chocolate and leather on the nose, the complexity carries through to the juicy, firm-textured palate where succulent ripe cherry fruit emerges with a flourish of sweet oak and spice. Long and juicy, rich and creamy with chocolate and spiced black cherries and a funky, savoury undercurrent, it's deliciously approachable and outstanding value for the quality it delivers. 13.5% alc. $21.99. 26Sep2007.
Deep berry red, almost opaque in the core. Black cherries on the nose and rich, ripe flavours with black cherry fruit, a spicy undercurrent, velvety tannins, sweet oak and an earthy richness to the long savoury finish. Value drinking. 13.5% alc. $21.99. 17Oct2007.

Terrace Heights Estate Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep purple-garnet red. Smoky and savoury with a cherry fruit sweetness on the nose and a lovely savoury sweetness in the palate. It's velvety smooth and succulent with a spicy earthiness and a plum and cherry fruit richness while the beautifully integrated creamy French oak lingers on the long, soft finish. Deceptively easy to drink and an inspired match to the lamb. 13.5% alc. 8Nov2007.

The Crater Rim Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep red in colour, opaque in the core, its perfumed scent leads into a powerful, full-bodied, grunty palate with plum and blackberry fruit, hints of leather, spice and savoury, creamy oak. As the wine opens up in the glass, the pinot noir intricacies are revealed with an earthy herbal undercurrent, silky tannins, more typical red cherry fruits, hints of chocolate and a long, savoury and succulent finish. One for the lovers of 'big reds', decanting is recommended for others. Gold Medal – NZ International Wine Show. 14.5% alc. $25.99. 17Oct2007.

The Crater Rim Omihi Rise Pinot Noir 2006 - Waipara (D) Deep in colour with a black core and purple-red edges, this is fragrantly scented with savouriness winning over fruitiness on the day. It's rich and creamy with firm tannins, smoky oak, hints of tar, sweet leather, earth, game, nutmeg and exotic spices and plummy fruit and fills out with a black cherry sweetness on the fragrant finish. This powerful pinot noir has so much richness and complexity that even non-pinot noir drinkers will love it. 14.5% alc. $42.99. 21Nov2007.

The Jibe Latitude 41 Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep ruby, translucent in appearance. Spiced cherry and soft vanillin oak aromas. Earthy, savoury red fruit flavours with underlying acidity and a herbal edge that doesn't detract. Medium-bodied, soft, smooth, sweet-fruited and quaffable with a warm flourish of velvety spices on the finish. Matured in seasoned French oak for 9 months. 13.5% alc. $18.95. 7Jul2007.

Thornbury Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep in the core with a ruby edge, this smoky, savoury wine has a black cherry richness to the scent and the flavour is beautifully balanced with biscuity oak, cherry, chocolate and spice. Silky in texture with underlying acidity adds brightness to the long seamless finish. 14% alc. $29.99. 19Sep2007.

Tirohana Martinborough Pinot Noir 2006 Garnet red with savoury scents that are infused with spice, musk and red fruits - it's quite floral. Firm in its tannin structure with a touch of chocolate, underlying acidity and sweet oak, it seems quite tight at first but fleshes out beautifully with sweet red and black fruits, savoury oak, a delicate spiciness and a long, persistent finish. 13.5% alc. $69.00. 17Oct2007.

Tohu Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) A lighter style than many of the new wave of pinot noirs we are seeing from the South Island, yet despite its comparative lightness, it is still immensely drinkable and will have wide appeal. It's soft and savoury with a creamy texture, subtle smoky oak, red fruits, a touch of dried herb and a fruit sweetness to the lingering finish. Very tasty indeed. $28. 27Oct2007.

Valli Bannockburn Vineyard Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep black cherry red with purple hues. Cherry, spice, musk evolve from the fascinating aroma. Full-bodied and sweet fruited to the taste with spiced black cherries, juicy blackberry, creamy oak, plush velvety tannins and spicy nuances with the intrinsic savouriness of pinot noir. A touch of smoky bacon lingers on the finish and the muskiness detected on the nose lingers with cherry on the persistence aftertaste. Decanting recommended. 13% alc. $45.00 19Aug2007.

Valli Gibbston Vineyard Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep boysenberry red, almost opaque. Tight and closed on first opening with subtle cherry in the grainy textured palate. It needs some coaxing and swirling to bring out its spicy oak and complex, sweet-fruited flavours that are so much obvious the next day. Ripe black cherry, plum, hints of violets, a touch of mocha, bitter chocolate and creamy oak with firm, velvety textured tannins and dried herbs on the earthy, savoury finish. Long and expansive. Just needs to integrate a little more. 13% alc. $45.00 19Aug2007.

Valli Waitaki Vineyard Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Wine berry hued, hints of spice, rose petal and earthy scents, it's silky textured, savoury and earthy to the taste with a spritziness of youth, integrated French oak, hints of red guava and red and black cherries with rose petal and violet overtones to the shy, spicy finish. Fine and expansive. Long and persistent. Excellent potential. 13% alc. $45.00 19Aug2007.

Vidal Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep ruby red with flashes of purple. Quite alluring with cherries, musk and spice on the nose and well-balanced, savoury flavours with silky tannins. Full-bodied, earthy and complex with red and black fruits mingling with spiced mushrooms and an infusion of smoky oak with a hint of violet and a touch of chocolate emerging on the persistent finish, it's amazing quality for the price. 13.5% alc. $24.99. 17Oct2007.
A lighter, transparent, Burgundy red, this is the complete opposite of the opulent styles, it's oily, earthy and funky and seems almost Burgundian with a delicate salty savouriness, silky tannins and a mushroom-like intrigue, but states its New World origin with a mouthfilling fruit-sweet finish. 13.5% alc. $23.99. 16Apr2008.

Villa Maria PB Marlborough/Waipara Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Translucent pinky garnet in colour, this has a delicately smoky, savoury aroma with a pinot red fruit scent. It's medium bodied in style, juicy and sweetish with raspberry and cherry fruit, a hint of vanilla and a balancing savoury tartness. Smooth and pleasant drinking. 13.5% alc. $21.99. 17Oct2007.

Villa Maria Reserve Marlborough Pinot Noir 2006 (sc) Deep purple red in colour, it's dark and savoury on the nose and big, rich and succulent to the taste. Filled with savoury, earthy, gamey flavours with leather, tar, chocolate, chicory and anise, the ripe cherry and plum fruit balances the savouriness perfectly. Lots of flavours and harmonious in its flow with silk-edged velvety tannins, it has a powerful finish that is long and tasty. 14% alc. $55.99. 17Oct2007.

Akarua Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Dense, red black and full of primary black cherry and plum fruit, this full-bodied wine impresses from the outset with its boldness, lushness and extraction. But beneath the polished oak, the big tannins, the nugget and the leather, there is good structure and acidity and the intrinsic earthy, spicy hallmarks of good Pinot Noir with a lovely anise spiciness lingering on the finish. 13.8% alc. $39.99. 14Feb2007.

Amisfield Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Medium Burgundy-red, not quite opaque, it's smoky, savoury and a little earthy on the nose and has an increasing vinous richness and power to the fine-textured palate with bitter cherry and cranberry fruit, hints of chocolate, earth and spice and a persistence of savoury cherry flavour. 13.9% alc. $45.99. 19Dec2007.

Anchorage Nelson Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Full on aromas of cherry, chocolate and spice, the bigness of the wine continues in the initially chunky palate. Full-bodied and complex with spiced cherry, an undercurrent of herbs and fine meaty tannins but coconut American oak detracts and the finish is overly acidic and spritzy. French and American oak were used for the12 months maturation of the wine. 12.2% alc. $21. 19Aug2007.

Ata Rangi Martinborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) What a big meaty style of pinot this is. Deep ruby, almost inky. Savoury and gamey with rich, luscious, dark fruit, mellow oak and silky tannins and a spiciness on the finish that tickles the tip of the tongue. With its structure and length, it definitely needs more time but this will be a wine of great longevity. 13.5% alc. $60. 18Sep2006.
Deep in colour with purple-edges, this is savoury and gamey from the outset with floral nuances as well as smoky bacon mushrooms, cherries and plums and a spicy lift to the finish. It's very dry with a firm tannin structure and a silky texture with lots going on in the layers of flavours that ripple across the palate leaving a creaminess in their wake. A beautiful wine, one to pour into a big glass and muse over at this stage of its life or just put away in the cellar for several years and let it evolve. 13.5% alc. $67.99. 30Nov2006.

Ata Rangi Crimson Pinot Noir 2005 - Martinborough (sc) Wow, this is like a mini version of the Ata Rangi Pinot Noir 2005 - full of savoury, meaty, gamey flavours, plenty of depth and concentration, just a little more approachable now. A star for the price. 13.5% alc. $28. 18Sep2006.

Auntsfield Hawk Hill Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Dense pinky red with youthful crimson/purple tints. Earthy, smoky, savoury aromas are underpinned by dense plummy fruit and hints of tar and a suggestion of mocha, spice and chocolate. It’s a big grunty style as its deep dense colour would suggest with an earthy, savoury backbone, cranberry and bitter cherry fruit, hints of anise and quite firm thick tannins. A rich mouthfilling style with plenty of flavour, I like the savouriness of the wine but it is young and muscular right now and needs a little more time to unfold. 14.5% alc. $45. 18/20. 30Dec2006.

Bannock Brae Barrel Selection Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep cerise with smoky, savoury scents imbued with spiced cherry and a smoky palate with a lovely spicy undercurrent and a savoury richness that reminds me of chocolate coated mushrooms and herbs. Smooth and succulent, long and tasty. 14% alc.$44.50. 9Oct2006.
Deep purple red, the deepest colour of all the wines tonight, and the aromas and flavours live up to the intensity. It's rich, almost raisiny, with plums, black berries and mushroom flavours filling the firm tannin palate with hints of liquorice and a spicy, savoury oak finish. 14% alc. $45.99. 15Nov2006.
Deep dark red with purple tints and a blackish core. Savoury, gamey, tarry and smoky spicy oak aromas. There's a slightly floral nuance too. It's concentrated and spicy in the rich, creamy textured palate with smooth silky tannins, juicy plums and purple fruit, hints of liquorice, fragrant spices and a bright, clean, full-bodied finish. Very classy with gold medals to prove it. Barrel selection. 14% alc. $34.99. 11Jul2007.

Bannock Brae Goldfields Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Big rich chocolatey style with fabulous extraction of purple crimson colour and ripe succulent flavours full of cherry with hints of rose petal. Velvety smooth with spices emerging, an earthy savouriness to the finish and a touch of spicy anise as it lingers. Delicious, young and vibrant with more complexity to emerge over the next year. 14% alc. $29.99. 30Nov2006.

Carrick Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Dense ruby with purple garnet edges, it's finely textured in appearance. Savoury, smoky, spicy aromas fill the nose and dense, savoury, full-bodied flavours fill the palate. It’s a gutsy, deep, earthy pinot with firm velvety tannins, juicy red cherry and cranberry fruits, hints of Valrhona chocolate and a long sweet, spicy finish. It just needs a little more time to let the tannins integrate. 13.5% alc. $45.99. 6Jun2007.

Chard Farm 'the Viper' Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Alluring deep ruby red coloured, crammed with ripe fruit, sweet smoky oak and mouthfuls of black cherry fruit. It's rich, ripe and savoury on the nose and tastes ripe and luscious with upfront black cherry flavours and fruit cake spices, a broad fleshy texture, ilky smooth tannins and a long, supple savoury finish. Underlying acidity balances the sweetness, hints of rose petal add a floral lift to the finish and all the while the gentle sway of oak adds harmony. From Parkburn (near Lowburn), all Dijon clones matured in French oak, 20% new, for 11 months. 5 stars. 13.5% alc. $50. 15Apr2007.

Chard Farm 'the Tiger' Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep ruby/violet coloured, it smells perfumed and savoury with black cherry and vanillin oak and tastes dry, dense and earthy with ripe cherries, guava, plum, smoky oak and anise-like spices. A wine of fascinating complexity, ripe and rounded, soft and smooth, a little meaty with sweet fruit and creamy oak filling out the lifted finish. Lowburn fruit with clone 5 as well as 666 & 777, matured in French oak for 11 months. 4 stars. 13.5% alc. $50. 15Apr2007.

Churton Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (c) Deep in colour with a perfumed aromas and earthy, gamey, savoury flavours with a creamy, velvety-textured backbone, juicy red fruit (guava & tamarillo, perhaps) and exotic spices with hints of anise emerging on the medium to full-bodied finish. 12% alc. $40. 9Oct2007.

Clayridge Excalibur Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Ruby red in colour, the bright cherry aromas have smoky savoury nuances and the taste is sweet and savoury, earthy and succulent with baked cherry, musk, spice, a firm tannined, savoury backbone and a floral musky note to the finish. The fruit is sweet and at first seems like biting into a black-fleshed peach with the skin on, following that with red guava and cranberries and finishing off with a bowl of sweet black cherries that linger on the long, mouthfilling, creamy finish. Well attuned acidity balances the sweetness and the finish is dry. 13.5% alc. $37.95. 17Nov2006.

Cloudy Bay Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Medium depth ruby hued with crimson flashes, youthful in its appearance. Sweetly perfumed with ripe cherry and spice; sweet, upfront, strawberry fruit fills the palate which has slightly grippy silky textured tannins, tingling acidity and a deep, earthy, savoury undercurrent. Long and savoury with hints of violet, rose musk and anise-like spices, it's medium bodied in style, fresh and youthful with a citrussy tang. 14% alc. $42. 15Apr2007.

Craggy Range Te Muna Road Vineyard Pinot Noir 2005 A deep blackcurrant colour enhances the alluring aroma of chocolate, spice and tantalising oak before the velvety liquid flows across the tongue with creamy oak, tart cherry and plum fruit, a hint of chocolate and woody herbs. Dry, spicy, with slightly grippy tannins that add to its charm, the finish is deliciously seductive and the savoury aftertaste is rounded and long with sweeter cherry and chocolate emerging to linger. Low cropping fruit naturally fermented and matured in French oak, 45% new, for 9 months. 14.5% alc. $44.95. 31Oct2006.

Delta Vineyard Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep pinky red with a cerise glow. Savoury and a little smoky with a gorgeous silky texture, ripe plum, berry and cherry guava fruit, an intriguing underlying earthiness, woody herbs, an underpinning of anise-like spices and a dry, gamey, savoury finish. Seductive and succulent with a delicious lingering aftertaste, this is utterly tremendous value. 14% alc. $19.99. 27Sep2006.
A little lighter in its cerise colour and more translucent than the Wooing Tree 2005 tasted beside it, this is a far more savoury, more Burgundian style of pinot with florals abundant on the nose, raspberry joining the cherry fruit, underlying acidity, herbal nuances and a long, silky textured, dry finish. 14% alc. 2Jun2007.

Delta Vineyard Hatters Hill Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Dense, deep ruby red, reasonably dense, it exudes juicy ripe pinot noir scents. It's a gutsy style of pinot with crisp, juicy cranberry black cherry and blackberry fruit, a smooth velvety structure, creamy oak, spices and a long juicy finish that has a rather seductive savoury allure. 14.5% alc. $27.99 . 6Dec2006.

Domaine Georges Michel Golden Mile Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 Deep purple/black garnet with good saturation, this is an earthy, savoury style of full-bodied pinot with truffle-like aromas, soft silky tannins, red fruits, a fair dollop of acidity, hints of anise, a touch of tar, and rosemary and other savoury herbs on the long, savoury, meaty finish. Quite vibrant. 13% alc. $19.99. 23May2007.

Dry River Martinborough Pinot Noir 2005 The aromatics had totally seduced me but I also liked the colour, a bright ruby crimson, not totally opaque and not nearly as extracted and as deep as some of the Dry River pinots have been in the past, more on a par with the 2004. In the palate it's smooth and velvety with crisp cherry fruit being joined by blackberries and purple berries, an earthy, savoury, undercurrent, hints of leather, subtle spice and citrus emerging on the long, creamy, cosy finish - that lift of acidity boding well for long term cellaring. I sense a stylistic change, and I like it! 12.5% alc. $77. 19Mar2007.

Escarpment Martinborough Pinot Noir 2005 (D) Deep, dense, crimson red, almost opaque. Cherry-infused vanillin oak imparts a hint of mocha on the nose while the flavour of this thick textured wine is imbued with cherry and liquorice with a spicy savoury undercurrent and the tannins are quite grippy, which bodes well for its cellaring potential. Quite chunky and meaty with chicory notes, it' a big Pinot with a Syrah-like rose petal character and a long savoury aftertaste. It's a wine that will become far more graceful with a year or two, or more, in the cellar. 13.5% alc. $45. 28Nov2006.

Escarpment 'Kupe by Escarpment' Martinborough Pinot Noir 2005 (D) Deep, dense, opaque, bright velvety red with a fascinating floral aroma underpinned by spicy creamy oak - and as the wine evolves in the glass the oaky aromatics are flushed with hints of liquorice, anise, sweet red fruits and porcini mushrooms. In the palate the oak is overriding at this stage of its life and the tannins are thick and furry with the sweet red fruits screaming to get out from behind this velvety cloak. A dense wine with a varnishy overlay, underlying acidity, herbs, a savoury, earthy richness and a creamy finish that is a radiance of brightness with a perfumed muskiness. This is a very young wine and a little bit all over the place at this early stage of its life. It needs to come together a whole lot more than it shows on first opening and I recommend long decanting if the wine is going to be consumed this year. A better cellaring proposition right now. 13.4% alc. $85. 15Apr2007.

Fairmont Estate Admirals Hill Pinot Noir 2005 - Wairarapa (sc) Dense coloured with ruby hues, the savoury aromas hint of smoky bacon and stewed tamarillo and lead into a silky smooth palate full of savoury, earthy notes and powerful rich berry and cherry fruit underpinned by firm acidity. Funky with flair. 13.5% alc. $20.99. 27Dec2006.

Felton Road Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep plummy red with crimson edges, this shows great extraction of colour. It smells savoury with a floral (herb flower/rose) nuance and forest floor and it tastes full-bodied with a fine, silky tannin structure, plush black cherry and pinot fruit, polished oak, wild thyme, liquorice and anise-like spices. With lots of flavour and considerable length, it is reasonably big for pinot but not a fruit bomb, just class, class, class. 13.5% alc. $47.99. 18Oct2006.

Gladstone 12,000 Miles Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Youthful, ruby garnet appearance. Savoury on the nose, crisp cherry fruit, ripe with hints of chocolate. Savoury to the taste, tart cherry fruit and grainy tannins become quite velvety and the finish is dense and earthy with a chocolatey overtone and crisp berry acidity emerging as it lingers. Good length and lots of pinosity. Just a little light compared to some of the others. 15.5/20. 13% alc. 30Dec2006.

Gladstone Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep purple-hued red, very youthful in appearance. Beet aromas lead into a medium-bodied palate with some acidity, a savoury undercurrent, earthy tones, raspberry fruit and creamy oak with herbal flavours lingering on the finish. 14.5% alc. $29. 15Apr2007.

Hyperion Eos Pinot Noir 2005- Matakana (D) Ruby hued with reasonable vinous depth. Smoky and savoury on the nose, there are hints of smoky bacon, it’s quite sweet in the palate with a spicy backbone to the juicy fruit. Plums, blueberries, cherries and a long, savoury, smoky finish with richness on the linger aftertaste. Upfront sweet, silky texture, warm and savoury, dry and rounded. A huge step up. From a cool season in Matakana, which obviously suited the variety. 13.5% alc. $25. 26Mar2007.

Jackson Estate The Vintage Widow Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep lustrous velvety red with a purple hue. There’s a very slightly bretty/farmyard/tarry/soapy character to the nose and the tarry flavours dominate the palate but emerging from the savouriness is big juicy blackberry fruit and layers of raspberries, cranberries and cream. Dense, rich and earthy with good length and a smoky, boot leather, dark fruit finish, as it lingers there’s a rounded savouriness with crisp berry fruits and vanilla. Perhaps a bit jammy, but there is lots of drinkability factor - and it is even better the next day. 17/20. 14% alc. $29.99. 30Dec2006.

James Love Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Quite expressive,savoury and spicy with hints of maraschino. Deep in colour with with purple tints to the crimson red hue, nutty oak, dry tannins, an array of oriental spices and earthy tones. Guava and cranberry fruit give way to ripe cherry and plum that emerge to linger on the finish, a deep, dark, savoury finish with a subtle, sexy, musky veneer. The wine has long term potential but right now it needs cheese or something soft and creamy to cut through the tannins. 13.2% alc. $29. 17Jan2007.

Julicher Martinborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Good depth of colour to the dark cherry, semi-opaque hue. Fragrant with smoky varnishy oak, this has the earthy, gamey, meaty signature of Martinborough with tart red fruits and a long dry finish. There are several clones in the wine which adds complexity and mouthfeel. 13.5% alc. $35. 3Sep2007.

Kim Crawford SP Comely Bank Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Ruby garnet in colour with purple-flushed edges. Cherry, berry and elusive pinot spice on the nose and juicy cherry fruit with chocolate and spice in the palate. With its silky tannins it increases in complexity to become savoury and earthy with some herbal notes coming through and a balanced seam of spicy orange-zest acidity to keep the long, succulent finish clean and focussed. 13.5% alc. $26.99. 18Oct2006.

Kumeu River Kumeu Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Transparent deep ruby red. Varnishy, smoky aroma reminiscent of smoky bacon and deli meats with a touch of rose petal, rose hips and cherry then in the palate there's tar, dried winter herbs, macerated cherry fruit and an earthy, sweet mushroom backbone while the merest touch of anise adds intrigue. Clean and savoury with rose petals and oak sweetness on the finish, like all the Kumeu River pinot noirs, this shows quite firm tannins in its youth and needs time for the tannins to evolve. Decant to let the floral components evolve. 13% alc. $33. 20Jul2006.

Lindis River Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (D) Deep ruby garnet with purple-red tints, the fragrant aromas are scented with smoky oak and ripe, spiced cherry fruit. Rich and ripe to the taste with black cherry and black fleshed stonefruit, this is a generous mouthfilling style with firm tannins and a long, rich savoury finish that hints of strawberry. 13% alc. Not yet released. 15Nov2006.

Lonely Mountain Taupo Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Ruby red, translucent. Sweet cherry on the nose and hints of vanilla, a little concocted and lollyish – like jubes or jelly babies. It’s sweet in the palate too, bitter sweet cherries and stewed plums underpinned by orange peel acidity and a prominent tarry savoury character as well. An interesting combo of sweet and savoury, but the savoury wins on the day and the finish is long and tarry with tamarillo emerging. The tannins are slightly grainy at first but have a silky afterfeel. A touch funky and a touch leathery, I quite like the waves of sweet and sour and the long savoury aftertaste but wonder whether it is slightly unripe.140 cases made. 12.5% alc. $34.95. 30Dec2006.

Lowburn Ferry Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep and bright with crimson purple hues to the pleasing dark red colour, there's a crispness to the berry fruit - like biting into a firm skinned ripe berry and letting the ripe, juicy flavours seduce the mouth. There's cherry and raspberry too with an earthy undercurrent, plenty of thyme-like woody herbs and well-balanced acidity emerging on the finish. Quite complex, smoky, savoury and earthy and though still very young, this was the best match to the food. 12.5% alc. $34.95. 28Nov2006.

Mahi Rive Vineyard Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) A big wine - spicy, savoury, herbal and earthy with an exciting aroma of truffle. It made me think of the top wines from Martinborough. After about 10 minutes a more floral perfume emerged and an array of interesting flavour characters developed in the palate. Spicy with thick velvety tannins, savoury oak and sweet fruit balanced by the acidity, this is a full-bodied, fleshy, generous pinot noir; a deep, satisfying wine. A blend of clones 666 & 777 with 15 months in French barriques. 14% alc. $37. 15Apr2007.

Martinborough Vineyards Te Tera Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Fragrant with rich, ruby red hues and soft, rounded, earthy, savoury flavours filled with spiced cherries and juicy plums with hints of tart red guava. The tannins are slightly grainy and there's a gamey richness mid-palate which gives way to hints of musk and succulent sweeter berries on the finish. Full-bodied and long. 13.5% alc. $27.99. 15Nov2006.

Mills Reef Reserve Hawkes Bay Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Light style, delicate, sweet cherry and a hint of truffle on the nose, it's earthy and savoury in the plate with a hint of anise and underlying acidity, medium-bodied in style but building to a dense finish where the herbal flavours of pinot noir linger. Tasted again the next day, it has become fuller and richer, and seems ripe and juicy with thick tannins, cherry and plum fruit, a touch of chocolate, and a velvety finish. Such a transition! 14% alc. $23. 15Apr2007.

Mount Difficulty Roaring Meg Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) A blend of Central Otago and Marlborough fruit, this light coloured wine has a smoky, wild 'woody herb' aroma and a light red fruits flavour with a savoury backbone, a smooth glycerol texture and a spicy flourish to the well-balanced finish. Lovely texture and very good length. 14.5% alc. $24.99. 23Aug2006.
Medium weight ruby garnet in colour with an earthy, slightly meaty, spiced plum aroma and sweet fruited savoury flavours with polished French oak, cherry and spice. A soft, juicy, medium bodied style with a silky texture and a touch of acidity on earthy finish. A nuance of chocolate emerges too. 14.5% alc. $24.99. 14Feb2007.

Mount Difficulty Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep bright Burgundy red. It smells ripe and sweet with vanillin oak and plums, while ripe plum and berry fruit fill the palate with earthy, savoury herbal notes and a zesty, spicy finish. This is a big, bold style of pinot with a beautiful silky tannin structure and deliciously juicy fruit that melds into the long savoury, dry, spicy (anise -like) finish. 14% alc. $41.99. 8Nov2006.

Mount Dottrel Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Spicy, bitey, vibrant style of Pinot with a slightly, grainy, silky texture, ripe black cherry fruit and tarter cranberries, a herbal, earthy undercurrent and hints of chocolate on the finish. This is very smart pinot noir - it's complex, it's powerful, it's ripe, it's tasty and it's yum.Very heavy Grande Burgundy bottle with a large punt. 14% alc. $31.50. 20Mar2007.
Burgundy red with a ruby glow, this *is* Pinot Noir as we know it. Smoky, savoury and just a little funky on the nose with a hint of varnish, this rich, velvety textured wine has an earthy richness, sweet red and black cherry fruit, hints of mushroom, varnishy oak and a subtle undercurrent of chocolate. Blue Gold award - Sydney International. 14% alc. $27.99. on case buys. 13Feb2008.

Mount Michael Bessie's Block Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep, bright purple-edged carmine red. Sensuous, savoury, forest floor aromas underpinned by spiced cherry and plum fruit lead into a complex and savoury palate with silk edged velvety tannins with enough crushed velvet grip to make you take extra note. Bright tamarillo and plush cherry fruit balances the earthy richness and the finish is long with a brightness as it lingers. Sultry with good acidity and structure. Very seductive now but with signs of cellaring potential. Matched to beautifully tender, strongly flavoured Asian spiced duck and black Doris plum broth served over lemongrass risotto brings out an extra dimension of peppery spiciness and fruit in the wine. 14% alc. $37. 2Nov2006.
Deep purple violet, intense and vivid. Beautifully fragrant and floral with a herb infusion to the creamy oak and smoky bacon aromas, and smoky, earthy, savoury flavours full of ripe cherry and plum fruit with a touch of orange peel that lifts the lingering finish. It's a blockbuster style with a deep flavour and plenty of pinot charm. 14% alc. $35.99. 15Nov2006.

Mt. Difficulty Long Gully Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep ruby black, quite dense in appearance, it's fragrantly scented with smoky spicy oak and tastes savoury and earthy with firm silky tannins, forest floor nuances, juicy red and black cherry fruit, a touch of chocolate, mulled wine spices and dried herbs emerging. There's a lovely lift to the finish where a floral, dried rose-like fragrance and a hint of orange pomander comes through. A long-flavoured, elegant, silky-smooth wine to savour. 14% alc. $74.99. 6Jun2007.

Nautilus Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Pinky edged, translucent red with a red-black core. Primary cherry fruit is balanced by more tart guava and cranberry with grainy youthful, crushed velvet tannins, sweet oak, a chocolate undercurrent and a floral note to the berryish finish where orange pomander notes lift the finish. The savoury aftertaste is long and satisfying. 13.5% alc. $39. 18Oct2006.

Odyssey Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (D) Vivid purple crimson, dense in the core. Fragrant, full of berry fruit and savoury oak scents, it is fruity to the taste with raspberries and blackberries balanced by aromatic spices and smoky oak with dry silky tannins, a herbal savouriness and a tingling of fruit cake spice on the finish. 13.5% alc. $29.99. 20Sep2006.
Cherries, cherries, cherries - it seems a bit of a ripe fruit bomb at first with a touch of chocolate and a savoury backbone but there's a green tea undercurrent and it's just a little chunky on the finish with a hint of anise as it lingers. 13.5% alc. $29.99. 18May2007.

Olssen's Slapjack Creek Pinot Noir 2005 - Central Otago (sc) The purple-flushed hue indicates youth and youth contributes to the bound up nose but swirling and shaking reveals the fragrant thyme scents so synonymous with Central Otago pinot noir. Youth also contributes to the tightness in the palate but the sweet cherry and berry fruit pushes through. There are lots of earthy / floral complexities and a touch of rose petal too. A wine with complexity, length and a long mellow flow, there's plenty to evolve before its release in June 2007. 14.4% alc. $NA. 9Sep2006.
Bright youthful ruby purple hues, not particularly dense, with rose petal and herb flower aromas becoming more savoury as time permits. It's medium-bodied, spicy and savoury to the taste with smooth silky tannins, cherry and stewed red fruit and a zesty finish. Released earlier than expected, it is one to evolve in the cellar. 14% alc. $63.99. 27Dec2006.

Ostler Caroline’s Vineyard Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep pinky red in colour, it smells rounded and smooth and savoury with hints of rose petal, an earthy, mushroom character and red cherry fruit. It’s spicy to the taste with lovely definition of tart cherry and red plum fruit under which a smoky savouriness emerges. There's some prickly acidity and lots of interesting funky (damp earth in the forest and mushroom) characters. A rich wine with firm tannins and a lovely silky texture. Couldn't be anything but pinot -the most Burgundian style in the tasting. 18/20. 13.5% alc. 30Dec2006.

Peregrine Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Vibrant and rich in colour with a purple/violet edge. Expressive, smoky, savoury aromas are flushed with liqueur cherry and chocolate and fleshy, concentrated, mouthfilling flavours are crammed with black and purple fruit with a touch of anise, a hint of earth, seductive velvety tannins and a long, savoury aftertaste. A very pleasing and satisfying drop. If you loved the multi-gold medal and trophy winning 2004 version of this wine, then you just have to get some of this - it's possibly even better. Time will tell. 14% alc. $34.99. 30Aug2006.

Pisa Range Central Otago Black Poplar Block Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Dense pinky red, youthful crimson/purple tints - similar in colour to the Auntsfield, just a little lighter in colour than the Jackson Estate. It smells creamy and smooth with vanillin oak, sweet black cherries, hints of citrus and a myriad of fruit cake spices - it smells so good I can’t wait to get it in my mouth and it does not disappoint. With soft velvety tannins, spiced black cherries and creamy oak, this is a juicy mouthfilling style with a touch of chocolate emerging together with a smoky savouriness, hints of creamed mushroom and later, hints of spiced orange peel as well. Very ripe and quite drinkable. The tasting notes say that this is a ‘masculine’ wine, but how do you define ‘masculine’? I don’t get any masculine. I just get a succulent, full-bodied, flavoursome pinot noir. 18.5/20. 14% alc. 30Dec2006.

Prophet's Rock Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep red with a ruby glow. Spiced black cherry and plum aromas with savoury smoky oak and hints of mushroom and initial savoury flavours with a concentrated red and black fruit depth, hints of tar, fruit cake spice, and a smidgen of liquorice adding complexity. A well-structured, full-bodied pinot noir with smooth velvety tannins and a sweet succulence to the lasting finish. 15 months in French oak. 14% alc. $38.99. 11Jul2007.

Quartz Reef Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Dense and dark with a black core and boysenberry-red edges, you don’t immediately think 'Pinot Noir' from the colour. It's a massive wine with wild berries and pie pastry on the nose and creamy oak, sweet plums, juicy brambles and liqueur cherries in the palate with allspice, subtle anise, fine grained dusty tannins and a long, full-bodied finish.14% alc. $43.99. 14Feb2007.

Richardson Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) With a polished, smoky aroma and a smoky, earthy, savoury taste that has just a little of that elusive pinot funk and a nuance of Central Otago's wild herbs, this is a rich, warm, seductive style of Pinot Noir. It's beautifully balanced, rich and long with luscious velvety tannins, spicy cherry fruit that has a fruit cake richness, smoky spicy oak, a hint of bitter chocolate and a touch of orange that imparts a vibrant tangy note to the lingering aftertaste. made from a blend of Lowburn and Bendigo fruit with 40% new oak. 14% alc. $50. 15Aug2006.

Richmond Plains Nelson Pinot Noir 2005 (D) Transparent Burgundy red. Earthy, savoury and funky with dark red fruits like guava and morello, the savoury wins over the fruitiness and even thought the tannins are dry and the flavour is quite tight and the finish is full of earthy, Burgundian funk the wine wins you over with its fine, silky texture. It opens up beautifully on the second day with an underlying earthy richness and similar flavour traits. Decanting recommended. 13.5% alc. $25. 15Apr2007.

Rippon Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (D) Rich and dark in its Burgundy colour, it's so ripe, so clean, so integrated. It's savoury and chocolatey with a bright spiciness and underlying earthiness with a quite grippy tannin structure and anise and florals emerging on the lingering finish. A big style, but it will definitely age. I rate it 'excellent'. 12.8% alc. $54. Diam. 9Oct2007.

Riverby Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Medium weight cherry red. Savoury smoky aromas and ripe cherry fruit flavours - sweet fruit cake cherry and spice, not overly complex but very drinkable with soft smooth tannins. There's underlying acidity which adds a spritzy character to the finish and the aftertaste is long and savoury. The wine becomes more and more complex as the night goes on. Good drinking now but will develop a little more complexity with more bottle age. 13.5% alc. $27. 28Nov2006.

Rose Tree Cottage Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep magenta red in colour with smoky, savoury red fruit aromas that hint of cherry and tart red fruits that combine well with the creamy richness of the savoury spicy oak and crushed velvet tannins that build in the palate to a lingering finish. There are hints of sweeter strawberry mid palate and cranberry surges on the finish. Lots of interest and drinkability for the price. 13.5% alc. $19.99. 1Nov2006.
Dark cherry red with moderate depth of colour, this easy going, juicy pinot has a sweet fruit aroma and tangy tamarillo, cranberry and morello cherry flavours with smoky oak, a touch of vanilla and an increasing velvety richness to the chocolatey finish. 13.5% alc. $20.99. 5Dec2007.

Saddleback Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) A blend of Central Otago and Marlborough fruit, this second label of Peregrine has good extract of fleshy red plum colour and a smoky, floral, cherry jam aroma. It's a big, weighty, gamey, savoury style with slightly coarse tannins, quite pronounced berry acidity, smoky oak, a touch of tamarillo and the floral notes coming through again to linger on the finish. 13% alc. $23.99. 23Aug2006.

Saint Clair Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Good colour of medium depth. Smoky, savoury, spiced cherry aromas and earthy savoury flavours with some depth, a herbal note and a touch of sweetness on the finish. A blend of several sub regions, Try it with pan-fried salmon. The savoury flavours and smooth texture of the wine work well with the strong flavour and texture of the fish. 13.5% alc. $19.95. 12Apr2007.

Saint Clair Omaka Reserve Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep hued, youthful, with a ruby garnet brightness. Sweet oak, vanilla, cherry and earth flood the nose, it's a dense rich wine, earthy and savoury to the taste with smooth, velvety tannins, a touch of liquorice and a hint of chocolate - earthy, dry, complex, classy and fleshy - consistent all the way through. 14.5% alc. $30. 15Apr2007.

Saint Clair Doctors Creek Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep in colour with crimson pink hues, earthy savoury aromas lead into a slightly tart, savoury palate with a gamey backbone and a little bit of grip to the tannins. There are some floral notes and good fruit balance and more savoury gamey complexities creeping into the finish. 13.5% alc. $25.95. 28Nov2006.

Seven Terraces Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Its draws you in with its fragrant aroma and sates you with its medium-bodied weight and depth of flavour where a touch of guava joins sweeter cherry fruit. 13.5% alc. $25. 23May2006.

Spy Valley Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Vivid purple-flushed deep red, savoury, smoky, cherry and musk scents and delicious flavours of chocolate, cherry, spiced plum. Reasonably bold but not too big with gorgeous plush tannins and a lingering spicy, smoky finish. Deserving gold medal winner. 13.5% alc. $27.99. 4Oct2006.
Alluring with its dense, vivid, deep, violet-edged plum colour, it smells savoury and earthy with wafts of spiced cherry, and tastes rich and plush with mulled cherry and plum fruit supported by savoury oak and fine tannins. It's a fleshy wine with a reasonable amount of underlying acidity while a hint of anise adds a spicy overlay to the polished finish. 13.5% alc. $27.99. 7Feb2007.

Spy Valley Envoy Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep, dense, ruby purple in colour, there's a funky, savoury, pinot character to the nose with a pretty waft of rose petal and the taste is bright and spicy with a gorgeously balanced acidic core and deep purple/black fruits, like plum and blackberry. It's inky and extracted, concentrated, earthy and spicy with a yeast lees-influenced thick creamy undercurrent and a long dry finish. A gorgeous evocative pinot noir that needs a little more time. 14% alc. $55. 7May2007.

Te Hera Martinborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Vibrant plummy red with good extraction. Savoury aromas and ripe fruit flavours of wild raspberries and plum with a hint of fennel come from the spicy undergrowth of the forest floor. Silky tannins have a little bit of grip, oak is integrated and well-balanced and the fleshy finish is long. 25% new oak. 14.5% $29.50. 9Oct2006.

Te Mania Nelson Pinot Noir 2005 (D) Savoury, earthy, dense aromas of funky wild yeasts, earth and hints of leather lead into a deep, earthy, savoury palate full of herbs, mushrooms, crisp red and fleshy black cherry fruit that combine together in such a way to make an intriguing wine with depth and character. I like the way it opens up in a big glass to become rich, savoury and creamy with an underlying herbal fascinationand a flourish of spice. A sleeping giant. 13.5% alc. $19.95. 15Apr2007.

Terrace Heights Estate (THE) Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep ruby, opaque in the core with carmine rims, it's savoury and spicy with ripe black cherry and plum fruit, creamy oak and fine tannins with a slightly damp earth undercurrent. Smooth and harmonious with excellent length, it's a juicy wine with good acidity that adds the peacocks tail flare to the finish. Matured in French oak. 13.5% alc. $26.99. 21Mar2007.

Thornbury Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Ruby hued of medium depth, it's smoky and savoury with spiced cherries on the nose and earthy and savoury to the taste with smoky bacon, sweet mushrooms and wild thyme. The fruit is tart (morello, red guava) rather than sweet and there's firm acidity underpinning the velvety texture. A medium-bodied wine, the finish is long and savoury with fruit cake cherries and spice leaving a pleasing aftertaste. 13.5% alc. $24.95. 20Mar2007.

Three Miners Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Rich dark red, sweet berry scents fuse into earthy complex aromas and the dense, rich palate is spicy and savoury, smoky and herbal with concentrated ripe plum and tart cherry fruit. A big wine, reflective of the vintage. 13'% alc. $33.99. 8Nov2006.

Triplebank Awatere Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep ruby purple with ripe cherry and creamy oak aromas and hints of red guava amongst the succulent blackberry and plum flavours, there's a tarry savouriness that underpins the full-bodied, fleshy palate that has great mouthfeel from the velvety tannins, and good length. 14% alc. $20.99. 15Nov2006.

Twin Islands Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Translucent ruby. Smoky, earthy, and lightly 'pongy' aroma. A little sweet and frivolous in the palate with plum and cherry fruit, a light tannin structure and a more savoury undercurrent to the slightly herbal finish. "Made in a light, fresh style". 13.5% alc. $20.00 19Aug2007.

Valli Bannockburn Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) A much, more generous wine that the Valli Gibbston - bigger, fatter, riper - with ripe cherry fruit, a touch of chocolate, lovely velvety tannins and a long, classy finish. 13.5% alc. $45. 28Jul2006.
Ruby garnet in colour, deeply translucent, not opaque. Lifted aromas of black cherry, chocolate, smoky sweet vanillin oak and salty herbs. It's spicy, savoury and quite dry to the taste with tart and sweet cherry fruit, dried rosemary and thyme, soft silky tannins and well-integrated slightly meaty savoury oak. 13.5% alc. $45.99/$40.99. 28Mar2007.
Deep ruby garnet coloured with an intriguing, rich, complex truffle-like aroma that has floral musky overtones and hints of vanilla, this generous wine is immediately appealing with its sweet cherry fruit, funky savoury undertones and gorgeous silky-tannined flow. It's soft and sweet when compared to the Burgundy tasted before it, but still undeniably Pinot Noir with a spicy richness, earthy mushroom notes and a long, succulent, savoury finish. $35.99. 28Nov2007.

Valli Gibbston Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Very attractive aromas of polished oak with tangy, bitter red fruits and mushroom, later the aromas become intriguing with its perfumed spice. Dry and savoury to the taste with an underpinning of herbs, mushroom and bitter cherry, tamarillo, polished oak and slightly grainy, silky tannins. A young wine with a lot of evolution ahead of it but perhaps the better wine of the two. 13% alc. $45. 28Jul2006.

Villa Maria Cellar Selection Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Bright ruby garnet. Perfumed and spicy with soft smooth, full-bodied flavours full of juicy, ripe cherry and plum fruit, chocolate and fruit cake spice with guava balancing the sweet fruit and an alluring, dark earthy undercurrent with hints of savoury herbs. Spicy cedar lingers on the bright zesty finish. Will appeal to Shiraz drinkers. 14% alc. $29.99. 15Nov2006.
Deep ruby with crimson hues. There's a fragrance of sweet sappy oak infused with cherry and delicate spice and it flows across the palate with its smooth tannins. It tastes juicy and flavoursome, full of cherry and chocolate with underlying spice. There's an earthy richness and a flash of vanilla on the lingering finish. Immensely drinkable. 14% alc. $29.99. 22Nov2006.

Villa Maria Private Bin Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Ruby hued, translucent with medium depth. Aromatic, smoky, savoury aromas and a silky textured, savoury palate infused with exotic spices and smoky oak with layers of succulent cherry and spicy berry fruit. A very smart wine for the price. 14% alc. $22. 17Aug2006.
Translucent ruby, aromatic and smoky with succulent cherry and raspberry fruit, a touch of spice and silky tannins all packaged into a medium-bodied style. There are chocolate notes to the finish which is lifted by citrus and savoury herbs. 14% alc. $19.99. 15Nov2006.

Villa Maria Reserve Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Youthful purple red with ruby edges, aromatic, smoky and savoury with a generous palate of ripe cherry fruit and plum fruit, a touch of chocolate, a fine silky texture, a spicy backbone and a suggestion of fennel-like herbs. With plenty of structure and oomph, there's lots going on. Exciting. 14% alc. $49.99. 20Sep2006.
Deep rich ruby, intensely aromatic, concentrated, smooth and creamy with a silky texture and impeccable balance. Chocolate, cherry, herbs and savoury nuances fill out the palate which is lush, curvaceous and utterly enthralling. The pinnacle wine in a fantastic portfolio of stunning pinot noirs from Villa Maria, and made to last. 13.5% alc. $54.99. 15Nov2006.

Waipara Springs Premo Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) A lovely savoury wine with richness of smoke and spices and delicious red guava, black cherry and tamarillo fruit. There's an earthy, savoury undercurrent and a hint of chocolate on the bright, spicy finish. Medium to full-bodied in style with a silky structure. Drinking very well now. 13.4% alc. $40. 9Oct2007.

Waitiri Creek Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Opaque in its depth of colour, but a little developed and browning with fading edges. On the nose it's savoury with smoky bacon and stewed fruit and the taste is deep, earthy, smoky, cedary, gamey and mushroomy, almost Burgundian. A complex, interesting, full-bodied wine with a smooth, silky texture, fine tannins and more mature flavours, it's drinking beautifully now. 14% alc. $36.99. 21Mar2007.

West Brook Blue Ridge Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Soft and supple with perfumed, savoury smoky bacon aromas and strawberry, chocolate, berry and savoury forest floor flavours with spicy oak and rose petals emerging on the concentrated finish. Well balanced and tasty. 14% alc. $28.95. 7Jan2007.

Wild Earth Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Deep cherry red with flashes of violet. Heavenly aromas of cherry, rose petal and hints of zest. Ripe and juicy with chocolate, oak and spice, cherry, cranberry and hints of guava. Fine and silky, earthy and intriguing with orange zest emerging again with chocolate and spice on the persistent finish. A blend of 55% Bannockburn and 45% Lowburn fruit with 10 months in French oak barriques, 45% new. 14% alc. $38.00 19Aug2007.

Wild South Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Translucent garnet ruby, just opaque at the core, Smoky, perfumed , spiced cherry aromas and nicely balanced, earthy, savoury flavours, with bitter cherry and blackberry fruit, a warmth to the finish and a long persistent aftertaste. A light, generous, easy drinking Pinot Noir. 13.5% alc. $16.95. 1Mar2006.

William Thomas Marlborough Pinot Noir 2005 (c) Deeply coloured with hints of black to the extracted dark red hue. Lovely aromatics, fleshy and full with hints of chocolate, creamy berry and a savoury, smoky intrigue. Generously flavoured with a savoury complexity, an earthy richness, a herbal edge and underlying acidity with a touch of orange zest to brighten the slightly sweet finish. Hard to pick as Marlborough, this rich, velvety textured wine performs best in a big glass. 13% alc. $32. 1May2007.

Wooing Tree Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Savoury, spicy, very tight in its structure, great backbone of balanced acidity and oak with bright cherry fruit, an underpinning of herbs and a sweet flourish to the bright, long finish. 14% alc. $34.99. 22Sep2006.
Fairly dense dark red with cherry red edges, it's not particularly expressive on the nose but it's full of flavour. Spicy, dry and savoury with sweet and sour cherry surging across the silky tannin backbone, it has richness and depth with balanced acidity and oak, a spicy pure pinot finish and a deliciously long aftertaste. Right now it's quite tight and really needs a big glass to let those intrinsic flavours open up. 14% alc. $34.99. 25Oct2006.
Deep cherry red, bright and vibrant, almost opaque. Chocolate abounds on the rich, sweet-fruited and very appealing nose that has the slightest hint of truffle and it's rich and rounded in the palate with concentrated clack cherry fruit, chocolate, a hint of mocha and a spicy backbone. A sweet, ripe, mouthfilling wine with a seamless, silky textured flow. Love the way this has developed over the last several months. 14% alc. $35. 2Jun2007.

Woollaston Nelson Pinot Noir 2005 (sc) Good extraction of colour, musky nuances among the savoury aroma, and a spicy oak influence to the earthy savoury flavours with dark plummy fruits and hints of cherry. Ripe, concentrated and gutsy. Drinking well now but will cellar. Upper Moutere fruit. 14% $36. 9Oct2006.
Grown on the clay bound gravels of upper Moutere, this is a powerful pinot noir, smooth in texture and fulfilling to the taste. It's toasty, spicy and just a little earthy while ripe black plum and juicy black cherry fruit make the wine sing to a crescendo of earthy savouriness, with musky tones subtly fading out the chorus. 14% alc. $35. 23Nov2006.