Pinot noir can vary from fruit bombs to dense, extracted wines with almost too muchflavour, from complex, textural, savoury ones, to fresh, charming ones that dance on the tongue.
BEST VALUE
$25
Three and a half stars
Good value
A fresh wine, with charming red fruits - cherry and strawberries, a hint of pepper, spicy but unobtrusive oak which gives depth and texture, and a lively finish. Good drinking now and for two or three years. (The 09 is drinking very well if you can find a bottle).
$28
Three stars
Below average value
Fragrant with pretty plum fruit and a fresh herbal edge, dusty tannins and a lively finish.
$30
Three and a half stars
Average value
Suggestions of white pepper and cherry plums give an exciting edge but are balanced by spicy savoury oak undertones and a fresh, textural finish.
www.martinboroughvineyard.co.nz
$30
Three and a half stars
Average value
Fragrant with lively, red fruit, a silky texture, supporting oak and a fresh acidity that dances on the tongue. A charming wine from Amisfield.
$30
Three and a half stars
Average value
Mouthfilling with suggestions of elderberries and a hint of savoury earthiness, lots of supporting oak and, strong, concentrated flavours and a firm finish - for those who like gutsy pinots.
$32
Four stars
Good value
Perfumed and mouth-filling with ripe, dark fruits, hints of dark chocolate and spice, firmly structured with supporting oak, dusty tannins, and a long aftertaste. A big but charming wine.
ANOTHER GLASS
Martinborough Vineyards Martinborough Terrace Pinot Noir 2011
$65-70
Four stars and a half
Average value
It took a while for this to reveal its charm but by the following day it was showing its class. Although the fruit is seductive, this wine is more about texture and complexity with hints of mineral, savoury oak, spice, and cedar chest, a lovely balance and lingering aftertaste.
www.martinboroughvineyard.co.nz
Tohu Rore Reserve Marlborough Pinot Noir 2012
$39
Three and a half stars
Below average value
Fragrant with a herbal lift and darker undertones, ripe red fruits, hints of leather, licorice, cigar box and lots of oak but a fine structure and a lively finish.
