1997 Bass Phillip Pinot Noir

Wine maker Phillip Jones is totally obsessed with Pinot Noir and Burgundy, with an aggressive, yet mother like ambition to produce perfect pinot noir. He subsequently protects his Pinot babies from outsiders at all costs. Whatever, you do don't hold your breath waiting for a fax message to be returned. The operation is relatively small with some 10 acres producing and more planted. Jones is fanatical about the concept of terroir and flavour. His Pinots are not filtered and require careful handling and more so, they need time to fully develop - 5 years.Opaque crimson brick red colour, remarkably deep for Pinot Noir. Distinct, varietal nose, no mistaking this wine for anything except Pinot Noir. Beautiful juxtaposition of aromas perfectly placed, with cherry plum being aligned with game and spice, with just a hint of volatility. Rich palate flavours of ripe plum, concentrate of cherry and strawberry are mouthfilling. The tannins are fine grained but not silky smooth at this stage and the acidity is a little high, but it is from a cool climate and it needs to be cellared. An excellent example of the varietal.The wine is sold out and our tasting note appears for the sake of completeness.