1998 Pipers Brook Vineyard Pellion Pinot Noir

A well made wine but without the distinction or depth expected from this winemaker and varietal. The colour is impressive - deep crimson with mauve edges. Lifted cherry, spice, raspberry and strawberry nose with a subtle oak end note. On the palate the flavours are straightforward and lack depth or persistence. Plum, cherry, spice flavours, soft tannins and short aftertaste. Cellar 2-3 years.

RETASTED 20/06/1999: A delicate disappointment. Medium bodied with light crimson colour. Aromas of dark cherry and strawberry followed by notes of toasted oak, spice and just a touch of boiled beetroot. The palate is light in structure and a little hard, lacking depth of fruit flavour. Simple. The tannins are too firm and the acid is too high. Cherry, strawberry and toasted oak aftertaste. Cellar 2-3 years.