The faintest amount of colour draws the eye here, aromatics of ripe beurre bosc, along with a little baking sweet-spice lure further.
A nice snappy line of acids brings vibrancy and energy. Lithe and lively, surpassing by a long stretch many pedestrian examples with focal appeal, allure, and line. 92
Mid-weight on entry, it starts to firm up through the palate, building and bringing a little baking spice and even a nod towards a fresh twist of black pepper. Long and savoury on the finish - exemplary Marlborough Pinot Noir. 94
Stonefruit, frangipane, grapefruit acidity. Subtle hints of ginger spice - particularly in that long and ebbing length of flavour.
Layers of texture, a slight nutty aspect, both a creamy cashew but also with bight of roasted hazelnut. Lots going on, much to like. 96
There remains a smattering of that oak on the nose: gentle play-doh, residual spice. Fruit begins to speak, black and brambly - heavier notes come to the fore.
Plush, velvety palate - subtle tannins. Latterly twists of black pepper, anise - the wine building in stature as it blossoms in the oral cavity. Feels good to go now - settled, assured. Yet it's of some sustained presence and that - along with history and pedigree of winemaking - informs as to its path ahead. 94
Offering fleshy nectarines and creamy notes, it starts to build with some stature: spice oak nuances in the frame.
It needs to build some additional flesh and weight - and that will come with time. For now it's an assured wine in youth - and enjoyable at that. 92
