Some outstanding pinot noirs, both in value and quality, from Marlborough and Waipara turned up for this tasting.
BEST UNDER $20
$19.99
Three and a half stars (outof five)
Good value
Lush, mouth-filling fruit - boysenberries, cherries and ripe strawberries, backed by spicy oak and a suggestion of dark chocolate, a velvety texture and supple, dusty tannins make this an attractive wine made by Auntsfield.
$36
Three and a half stars
Average value
A powerful wine, oozing dark berries and plums with lots of spicy oak, a fresh lift and silky tannins. A rich, attractive wine that will develop over a year or two.
$30
Three stars
Average value
With hints of cherry plums and licorice, savoury nuances and mineral undertones, this fresh, slightly edgy wine finishes with dusty tannins.
$41
Three and a half stars
Below average value
Floral and mineral aromatics lead into generous red fruits and blackcurrants and spicy undertones and well balanced supple tannins on the finish. This single-vineyard wine will benefit from bottle age, or at least aerating before drinking.
$47
Four stars
Average value
Complex aromas with a suggestion of berries, dark chocolate and spicy, savoury oak, but it is harmonious with a long finish. This classy wine from one of the country's leading winemakers will develop with bottle age.
$84
Four and a half stars
Below average value
The Prima Donna suggests ripe red fruit - cherries, plums, with underlying dark spicy and savoury flavours, a hint of smoky oak, texture, and harmony and a long, fresh, supple finish. This outstanding young wine will benefit from bottle development.
ANOTHER GLASS
Black Estate Waipara Pinot Noir 2010
$41
three and a half stars
below average value
Dark cherry fruit, savoury undertones with a suggestion of licorice, spicy, toasty oak with a textural finish and lively aftertaste.
Conspiracy Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010
$15
Two stars
Average value
A bright pinkish colour with confected flavours, hints of toast and spice, and dusty tannins.
Although wine sent for review is tasted blind to eliminate preconceptions, all wine tasting and evaluation is subjective. These are personal recommendations.
