2017 Tolpuddle Vineyard Pinot Noir

Tolpuddle is the Tasmanian outpost of Shaw & Smith’s Martin Shaw and Michael Hill Smith. Deep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a bright crimson purple hue. Spiralling from the glass is a perfumed kaleidoscope of aromas that includes violets, ripe dark cherries and strawberries all subtlety laced with anise. Also evident are complexing notes of forest floor, some game elements, spicy cedar and dried herbs. Rich, elegant and supple in the mouth, the lengthy palate features ripe red and dark cherry, strawberry, infusions of violet, light anise, toasty cedar, forest floor and spicy dried herb flavours. Very refined tannins show perfect integration with the fruit. Superb power wave finishing with a lick of bright acidity and a long lingering aftertaste of dark cherries, ripe strawberries, subtle anise, forest floor, game like characters and spicy cedar.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Other Reviews….
This 6th release of Tolpuddle Vineyard pinot noir is the finest work to date, as it shows refinement and true vineyard expression. The fruit aromas are wildly alluring with red and dark cherries, red plums, strawberries, pink grapefruit, blood oranges, peaches and pomegranate. Some light peppery notes and an array of freshly ground, hard brown spices, stony and sappy elements, crushed roses and violets. Very complex. The palate is just as impressive with a strikingly resolved mix of power and elegance. Flavors of red and dark cherries, persimmon, plums and blackberries are encased in a sleeve of helix-like tannins, which also carry long and emanate waves of fresh fruit flavor. Intense red cherries and red plums hold the finish long and pure. This is something special. Drink or hold.
99 points
JamesSuckling.com