Tactically released after the more approachable 2010, The Vicar 2009 is a showcase for the inimitable tannin structure of the season, firm, rigid and mouth-embracing, yet ultra fine. Density meets calm control in lifted precision of violets and delightful black plum and black cherry fruit, set against a savoury backdrop of black olives and game. […]
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The blessing of limestone subsoils defines many of pinot’s finest sites on earth, and in the Waipara district of north Canterbury, Mountford’s limestone soils come very close to the surface. The roots of vines now more than twenty years of age draw very fine mineral tannin structure from the earth, defining a pinot noir of […]
readEnvoy is the child of a single block of Spy Valley’s oldest pinot noir vines, and tends to land at the fuller-bodied end of the Marlborough spectrum. It delivers impressive black cherry and violet fragrance in 2010, with refreshing lift for a pinot of 14.5% alcohol. The palate is built on wonderfully mineral tannin depth, […]
readGreywacke takes on a different mood in 2011 to the fragrant 2010, and every bit as beguiling. More savoury, more peppery and more herbal, with a layered core of berry compote, plenty of spice and refined tannins of mineral texture. $38 at Our Cellar.
readDavid Hohnen was among Western Australia’s pioneers of Zinfandel in the 1970s, planting the vineyard that now supplies Cape Mentelle. He planted Rocky Road in the 1990s, and his pioneering work continues in the introduction of new clones. The 2011 is a Zinfandel of outstanding balance – an extremely difficult feat with this variety at […]
readThere’s no mistaking the origins of Epoch, an equal blend of grenache and cinsaut vines of 70-90 years of age, just 300m from the southern coast of France. The subtle complexity of garrigue and an understated note of sea salt proclaim the ever-present influence of the Mediterranean, amidst elegant strawberries, red apples and guava. An […]
readWith more complexity and depth than the youthful simplicity of the “Rutherglen” classification, yet without the potent intensity of more senior blends, I love Campbells’ Classic for its exacting balance, wonderful persistence and sheer drinkability. With an average age between five and ten years, the freshness of sweet marmalade and cold tea are retained, within […]
readVine age has been a key driver of the rise of Marlborough pinot noir in recent years. Spy Valley ranks among the best producers in the region, having first planted the variety more than twenty years ago, and even its youngest vines were ten years of age in 2011. This infuses an elegant, mineral tannin […]
readIn extreme youth, lime blossom and pink grapefruit highlight a pretty bouquet. The palate is taut, honed and persistent, with a linear acid spine, tightly coiled structure and slaty texture. Great now, and short-term potential. $20 at Our Cellar and Jim’s Cellars.
readThe understated restraint of the cool 2011 season has coaxed out the tangy, savoury personality of sangiovese. Tomato bush and pink pepper create a herbal style, with dark berry fruits amidst finely textured and impressively mineral tannins. $20 at Discount Wines and Cracka.
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