2002 Paringa Estate Pinot Noir

A sensational Pinot Noir. We tasted this wine a couple of weeks ago and were only mildly impressed. Since then it has bounced back from bottle shock and really started to blossom.
Very deep crimson colour with deep crimson hue. Sophisticated nose of violet, and strawberry followed by hints of stalk, California poppy, spice, cloves, mocha and coffee – a wonderful sniff. The palate has excellent weight and mouth feel, with flavours of violet infusions, liquorice allsorts, strawberry and clove emerging. Perfect balance, with outstanding length and depth, with strong Pinot Noir power wave.
Cellar 5-8 years (2009-2012)
Alc/Vol: 14.1%RATING: 96/100VALUE: XXXXX/5

FIRST TASTED: September 2004
This is the fifth release of this wine which has seen 35% new French oak. The wine is still disjointed, and needs time to integrate, Very deep crimson colour with deep crimson hue. There is a touch of stalkiness on the nose, followed by nuances of dried herbs, black cherry, mocca and coffee. The palate is very tight with quite dry tannins, over a layer of mocha, smoky oak, coffee and stalk, which run through to the aftertaste.
Cellar 3-4 years (2007-2008)
RATING: 86
VALUE: XXX

Other reviews……

Spotless, pristine varietal character; a long, lingering and intense palate; a perfect match of red fruits, spices, oak and fine tannins.

Rating 96

Drink 2009
“James Halliday - 2006 Australian Wine Companion”