2005 Spy Valley Wines Marlborough Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $29, screw cap. Crop was reduced in 2005 but overall quality was good. Four separate blocks were hand picked and gently crushed into 5-ton open-top ferment tanks. After a short cold soak, fermentation was carried out with wild yeasts and the wine aged in oak barrels for 12 months. Tasted twice with consistent notes. · The wine has a dark violet robe. The alluring nose features dark spicy cherries. On the palate there are copious black currents, plums, and hints of graham cracker and licorice. The mouth feel is plush and the finish lingering. This is a richly endowed and generously fruity style of Pinot Noir that is beautifully balanced. If you have an interest in New Zealand Pinot, this would be a fine example to cut your teeth on. Reviewed January 10, 2007

Winery: Spy Valley Wines
From article: Spy Valley Wines