Esk Valley, 2011

Tasting: Marlborough Pinot Noir

Floral spice, red fruit, hedgerow fruit; tarry oak up front and dark fruit follows, a bit sour with earthy, astringent tannins in evidence. A bit schizophrenic.

Tasting: Marlborough Pinot Noir

Closed, vaguely fruity nose. Palate is confected: blackcurrant ‘jelly babies’. Balanced, fresh, and with moderate tannins and some minerality, but feels hollow and finish is mid length. Lacks varietal character.

Tasting: Marlborough Pinot Noir

Deep colour. Open, fragrant, fruity, ripe nose. Ripe, but not jammy black cherry and raspberry fruit on palate. Clean and pure, with subtle oak, well-balanced acidity, good length.