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Pinot Noir
While we continue to expand our collection of Burgundies, more and more new-world winemakers are coming to terms with this challenging variety. Australians have identified Geelong, the Yarra Valley and the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria as suited to premium Pinot Noir. More recently, Tasmania has shot up the ranks. Mount Mary, Farr Rising and Tolpuddle are names to seek out. New Zealand is also producing some compelling, full bodied wines. Look for regions like Martinborough, Marlborough and Central Otago.
- 2018 Dujac Fils et Pere Gevrey-ChambertinBurgundy, FRANCE$125. 00Bottle$1500.00 DozenClosure: Cork
Other Reviews....
This is riper than its 2019 counterpart with its dense array of earth, sauvage and dark berry fruit aromas. There is outstanding richness to the reasonably energetic medium-bodied flavors that also conclude in a rustic and mildly austere finale. This is quite good and recommended but at least some patience required.
89 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundSlightly lighter purple colour, a little bit funky here, sweet not quite cooked strawberry fruit here, juicy and stays balanced.
86-88 points
Jasper Morris - Inside Burgundy -
- 94
- Biodynamic
2020 Eastern Peake Intrinsic Pinot NoirBallarat, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkThe Eastern Peake project was set in motion in 1981 when Trevor Mast (winemaker at Best’s Great Western at the time) placed an ad in the local paper looking for potential sites to grow high-altitude, cool climate Pinot Noir. Dianne Pym & Norman Latta having recently purchased their elevated property in Coghills Creek (25km North-West of Ballarat) answered the call, with the first vines going into the ground in 1983. The Latta’s started producing wine themselves from the site in the mid 90’s, with the guidance and generosity of Trevor. During the 1999 vintage Norm sustained a concussion in the winery leaving their then 15-year-old son, Owen Latta to complete the vintage. After completing his studies and a few stints in other wineries, Owen took over from his parents in 2006.
The vineyard sits on a high plateau, 430m above sea level, and is planted to 12.5 acres of Pinot Noir & Chardonnay with some Syrah coming from the property next door (Walsh Block). Farming has been organic since day one, with a focus on regenerative farming starting in 2006, and a move towards Biodynamics in more recent years.Other Reviews….
Some serious regenerative/organic farming going on at Eastern Peake, a family labour of love that focuses on increasing quality. New labels on the way.
Deep, brooding style with huge lift of fresh, red fruited acidity. Dark cherry, bay leaf, peppery notes, anise, pepper in scents and flavours, a soft spread through the palate with al dente, graphite-laced tannins weaving through and finishing things with building pucker. Tannin is exceptional here. Serious, savoury style. Drink now, but also long cellar time is recommended. Drink 2022 - 2030.
94 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front (April 2022) -
- 88
2020 Edith Sound Marlborough Pinot NoirMarlborough, NEW ZEALAND$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2021-2023)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinBright dark red colour with black tinged edges and a luminous purple red hue. Lifted ripe cherry and anise aromas have a fresh herb overlay with some stalk and spice also evident. Light and uncomplicated, dark cherry and anise flavours are backed by toasty oak and lively acidity. Spicy finish with slightly grainy tannins and a modest aftertaste.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 97
- 97
- 96
- 95
2024 Elanto Vineyard Pinot Noir Magnum (1500ml)Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$195. 00Bottle$2340.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 14%Closure: CorkRich, supple and expansive with a long peacock’s tail like finish.
Elanto Vineyard is fast becoming one of the most compelling projects on the Mornington Peninsula. Established in 2018 by Elizabeth and Tony Todaro with Sandro Mosele at the helm, the 10.6-hectare Balnarring site is planted at an extraordinary density over 11,000 vines per hectare, four times the regional norm. Yields are kept to just 300-500g per vine, resulting in small, concentrated bunches that carry the depth and power Sandro has long championed. Volcanic red soils, southeast exposure, and the cooling influence of Western Port Bay provide the setting, while meticulous organic farming and uncompromising vineyard detail push the wines into rare territory.
The five Pinot Noir vineyards, Vertex, Ironstone, Chicory, Kilnside, and Basalt, span 6.7 hectares on the upper slopes with basalt-rich soils. The red volcanic soils transition to shallower, stonier terrain mid-slope, producing lower yields, concentrated flavors, and a distinct tannin profile. Each vineyard was harvested and vinified separately, with chilled, destemmed fruit (3-5% whole bunches) undergoing cold soak and natural fermentation in concrete vats. After 25-30 days on skins, the wine was pressed and aged in a mix of new and older French oak barriques for 11 months before blending and bottling.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Perfumed aromas of violet, dark cherry, strawberry and anise soar from the glass trailed by some spicy cedar, forest floor, subtle dried herb and brambly rhubarb like notes. Rich, supplely textured dark cherry, strawberry and anise flavours expand across the palate with a peacock’s tail like power wave. Spicy cedar, rhubarb, forest floor, delicate infusions of dried herbs and bramble are spread across the back half. Seamlessly integrated, velvet smooth tannins and fresh underlying acidity. Finishes super seductive and very long.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews……
What a beguiling wine – only the second release and showing complexity far beyond its years. It’s certainly youthful and pretty with heady aromas of florals and autumn leaves with flavours of wild strawberries, dark cherries and pips, chinotto, Middle Eastern spices and some poached rhubarb, too. The medium-bodied palate is evenly poised, laden with filigree tannins (lots of them) and energising acidity; oak (25% new) completely integrated. This has depth, some grip, a little amaro bitterness on the finish and, of utmost importance, it will age but it’s oh-so pleasing to drink today. Drink by 2036.
97 points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionThe intensity of fruit here is fantastic, as is the length of the finish, as is the tannin profile. This wine is out of the ordinary on these matters alone. It tastes of stewed red and black cherries, peppercorns, cedar and undergrowth, the dry crackle of the finish – yet sluiced with fruit – one for the ages. The slightest degree of warmth is my only hesitation; in all other respects this is superb. Drink 2026-2033+
95 points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine FrontThe 2024 Balnarring Pinot Noir is perfumed and fragrant and quite different in character compared to the 2023 tasted alongside. Where the former was powerful, structural and condensed, this is floral, perfumed and fresh. I love the way this wine performs. There is levity here and minerality too. The tannins are structural and chalky through the long finish. This is very good. It doesn't break stride at any point. 14% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2025-2039.
96 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate -
- 96
- 95
- 95
- Organic
2023 Elanto Vineyard Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 14%Closure: Diam CorkElanto Vineyard, a 10.6-hectare high-density site on the Mornington Peninsula, is managed by acclaimed winemaker Sandro Mosele and his team. With 11,000 vines per hectare—four times the typical density—yields are limited to 300-500g per vine, enhancing concentration and power in the wines. Organic practices, deep soil cultivation, and volcanic basalt soils rich in iron stone encourage site-specific expression, while the vineyard's southeast aspect and cool sea breezes preserve natural acidity and freshness.
The five Pinot Noir vineyards—Vertex, Ironstone, Chicory, Kilnside, and Basalt—span 6.7 hectares on the upper slopes with basalt-rich soils. The red volcanic soils transition to shallower, stonier terrain mid-slope, producing lower yields, concentrated flavors, and a distinct tannin profile. Each vineyard was harvested and vinified separately, with chilled, destemmed fruit (3-5% whole bunches) undergoing cold soak and natural fermentation in concrete vats. After 25-30 days on skins, the wine was pressed and aged in a mix of new and older French oak barriques for 11 months before blending and bottling.Very deep dark red black tinged core with a dark red hue. Potently alluring aromas of dark cherries, strawberries, violet, dried herbs and subtle anise flood the olfactory senses with earthy rhubarb and spicy cedar notes ensuing. Rich and powerful the seductive palate has a wonderful velvet like feel to it with spicy dark cherry, strawberry and rhubarb flavours expanding across the palate like a peacocks tail, carrying with it ample textural volume. Lending further interest are brambly dried herb characters, forest floor and spicy cedar. Silky smooth tannins finishing very long, gorgeously fruited and supple.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
Never in a million years would I have picked the vine age given the savouriness, detail and complexity in this wine. Fruit off four-year-old vines. Quite astonishing and yet, the proof is in the glass. Full of heady aromatics – all florals and wood spice with flavours of dark cherry, cherry compote and poached rhubarb. But it’s not at all fruity, as it also comes with a hint of charred radicchio and Italian bitter herbs. There’s a vivacity across the just medium-bodied palate, a little sinewy, yet savoury through and through; best of all, the shapely, fine tannins take charge as it finishes long and convincingly. Made from hand-picked fruit, whole-berries with 3% whole-bunches, fermented in Nico Velo Tulipe concrete vats, pressed off skins after a month and aged a year in mostly light toast François Frères barriques, 30% new. Drink by 2031.
95 points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionThere’s a lot going on with this Pinot Noir but it manages to feel effortless. Seamless is the word; finished is another. Campari-like herbs, roasted nuts, earth, undergrowth and sweet black cherries, the latter deep-set in Pinot Noir terms. There’s an excellent framework of tannin, firm and velvety at once, dry strings splayed out across a mesh made of hazelnuts. This wine became more expansive as it rested in the glass. This is the first Pinot Noir grown and made from this vineyard. It’s an exciting debut, with an even more exciting future. Drink 2024-2030+
95 points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front -
- 93
- 95
2018 Eldridge Estate Single Vineyard Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$56. 99Bottle$683.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2022-2025)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinAged in French oak barriques of which 20% were new for 16 months. Semi translucent red to dark colour with black shaded edges and a light red hue. Spicy cherry, rhubarb and strawberry scents unfurl from the glass followed by dried herb, forest floor and meaty cedar like notes. Light in body the palate makes a supple entry with red cherry, rhubarb and winter strawberry fruits overlaying forest floor, dried herbs, game and spicy cedar. Polished tannins with vibrant acidity and a medium to long conclusion.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
A mesh of six clones, dry-grown and planted in front of the property. The most single of single vineyards! Fully destemmed, soaked and fermented under the aegis of natural yeasts, before ageing for 16 months in French oak, 20% new. The result is a pallid ruby, bristling with intent while belying the intensity of flavour that is to come: sour cherry, loganberry and other alpine red fruits. The tannins are attenuated, slaty and thirst-quenching, melding with maritime acidity to pull the melee long. This stands defiant and righteous in the face of so much pinot in this country made with excessive whole-bunches. Drink by 2026.
95 points
Ned Goodwin – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 96
- 95
2016 Eldridge Estate Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2021-2024)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinLocated in a shaded valley in the Mornington Peninsula hinterland, Eldridge Estate is one of the coolest vineyards on the Mornington Peninsula. From vines mostly planted in 1984 the grapes are grown in a single plot of 3 hectares.
Aged in French oak barriques for 16 months. Semi translucent dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Aromas of sour to red cherries and strawberries are complexed by notions of forest floor, game, dried herbs and spicy cedar. Rich, supple and powerful, this is in its peak drinking window. Delicious dark cherry, ripe strawberry and anise flavours engulf the mouth supported by a silky smooth tannin structure. The back half picks up ascents of dried meat, forest floor, dried herbs and spicy cedar. Superb power concluding long and highly moreish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
Seven clones of pinot noir as a starting point. Wild yeast, 100% whole berries, 25% new oak, three different coopers. Poached strawberries, Turkish delight, red cherry and fistfuls of meaty spice. It has personality and difference within a taut, disciplined frame. It gives up plenty, even this young, but everything suggests there are more delights tucked into its flamboyant sleeves. Drink by 2026.
95 points
Campbell Mattinson – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 96
2020 Elgee Park Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$54. 99Bottle$659.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinMatured in French oak for 10 months. Semi translucent bright red colour with a light brick red hue. Alluring scents of red cherries, violets, winter strawberries and rhubarb sail out of the glass complexed by notions of dried herbs, forest floor and spicy cedar. Light across the palate with a supple feel, the palate is decorated with a savoury mix of red cherry, winter strawberry and rhubarb fruits which are complimented by dried herb, forest floor and spicy cedar elements. Ample power with a silky tannin structure and long refined finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 95
2019 Elgee Park Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$46. 99Bottle$563.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinMatured in French oak for 10 months. Semi translucent dark red colour with black shaded edges and a light red hue. A bouquet of violets intermeshed with dark cherries and strawberries rises from the glass with ample intensity. Forest floor, vanillin cedar, fresh herb and spice notes ensue. Delicious red to dark cherry and winter strawberry fruits are layered across the palate, underscored by meaty forest floor like characters, infusions of fresh herbs and spicy cedar. Silky yet fresh in its feel with polished tannins and a long savoury aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
2018 Elgee Park Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2020-2025)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinMatured in French oak for 10 months. Semi translucent red colour with subtle tinges of black around the edges and a light red hue. Possessing a perfumed like quality, the nose sees violet, dark cherry and strawberry aromas spring from the glass with forest floor, subtle dried meat, spicy cedar and fresh herb notes ensuing. Savoury red cherry and winter strawberry fruits subtlety layer themselves across the palate underpinned by spicy vanillin cedar, forest floor and traces of dried herbs. Lacks some conviction in terms of its power. Smooth, polished tannins and balanced acidity with a medium length aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 96
- 95
2016 Elgee Park Pinot NoirMornington Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2023-2024)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinElgee Park is situated amidst the protected gentle hills of Merricks North and is considered one of the Peninsula’s warmer sites. Established in 1972 by Baillieu Myer and family, the 4.5 hectare vineyard was the first in a new era of Mornington Peninsula vineyards. Matured for 10 months in French oak of which 30% was new. Semi translucent dark red colour with a light red hue. Intense aromatics of dark cherries and strawberries laced with anise and hint of violets are followed by some gamey notes, lightly toasted cedar and spice. Delicious ripe dark cherry and strawberry flavours interplay with anise, lightly toasted cedar, forest floor and spice. Supple mouthfeel with very finely grained, well integrated tannins. Delivers excellent power with a long spicy dark cherry, strawberry, anise, subtlety smoked cedar, dried meat and forest floor aftertaste.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
A gleaming hue but quite pale and transparent. A lot of subtlety with just-ripe red cherries, cranberries, florals, warm earth and spices. There's a prettiness, too; it's deceptive, because it's medium-bodied with detail and precision, soft acidity and fine tannins giving it drink-now status. Drink by 2023.
95 points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion -
- 90
2022 Emmalene Pinot NoirAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2023-2026)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red core with black tinged edges and a vibrant purple red hue. Fragrant violet infused scents of raspberry and strawberry blossom from the glass followed by some fresh herb and faint earth notes. Juicy red cherry and strawberry fruits have a light elegant feel with infusions of fresh herbs and subtle inky earth characters lying underneath. Polished tannins and bright acidity finishing fresh and sleek.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 93
2022 Escarpment NOIR Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinLight, supple and spicy with a faint twang to the acidity and a savoury finish.
Aged in predominately older French oak barriques for a period of 10 months. Semi translucent red to dark red colour with a light red hue. Spiced cherry and strawberry aromas mix with forest forest floor, hints of anise and dried herbs. Light, supple and spicy, red cherry, winter strawberry and anise flavours decorate the palate with dried herb, forest floor and brambly cedar elements the undercard. Polished tannins with a faint twang to the acidity and a savoury finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 94
- 93
2019 Escarpment Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinDark red in colour with a light brick red hue. The nose offers up a mix of red cherry, strawberry and plum aromas infused with stalky cedar, forest floor and spiced meat notes. Very savoury and light in body the palate serves up wild cherry and strawberry fruits over meaty elements, dried herbs, forest floor and spicy cedar. Fine grained tannin structure concluding with an elegant, earthy medium to long aftertaste.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
Aromas of redcurrants, cherries, dried herbs and baking spices. Medium body with lively acidity. Fresh, layered and juicy with a bright core of fruit and a succulent finish. Drink now.
93 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 93
2021 Escarpment NOIR Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: 4 - 5 Years (2027-2028)ABV: 93%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red core with black shaded edges and a dark red hue. Blossoming out of the glass are scents of dark to black cherries, violets and anise which intermingle with forest floor, fresh herb and spices. Spicy dark cherry, strawberry and anise flavours are scattered across the palate with toasty oak, earth and dried herb characters lying underneath. Dryish, slightly chalky tannins finishing fresh and a touch lean with a taut mid length aftertaste.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 95
2018 Escarpment Kiwa Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2020-2026)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent red to dark red colour with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Perfumed aromatics of violets, ripe dark cherries, strawberries and anise waft out of the glass with subtle notions of clove, forest floor and spicy herbs ensuing. Bright juicy red cherry and strawberry fruits overlay anise, lightly toasted cedar, subtle forest floor and spicy clove. Supple feel with bright acidity and velvety tannins. Excellent drive with a long savoury aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
- 94
2017 Escarpment Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2025-2026)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red colour with tinges of black around the edges and a light red hue. Perfumed aromas of violets, dark cherries, anise and wild strawberries blossom from the glass followed by some meaty notes and spicy cedar. Light in body the palate possesses rich dark cherry, anise and dark plum fruits which are interwoven with earth, toasty cedar and spice. Slightly dryish tannins lead into a medium length aftertaste that’s a touch chalky in its feel.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews…..
This has a very rich, ripe and attractive feel with innate depth that arrives by means of the region, experience and methods in play here. The dark and red cherries and plums are beautifully fresh and vibrant and framed in earthy, sappy notes that add complexity. The palate is intense yet plush. The rich dark cherries are cleverly captured and wrapped in reassuringly long, smooth tannins. Lots to like here! Drink or hold. Screw cap.
94 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 96
2018 Escarpment Kupe Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$95. 00Bottle$1140.00 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2020-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red colour with a subtle black tinge to the edges and a light red hue. Perfumed scents of violets, red to dark cherries and winter strawberries blossom from the glass trailed by some anise, fresh herbs, forest floor and spice. A power wave of red to dark cherries, strawberries and anise fan out across the breadth of the palate like a peacocks tail backed by fantastic freshness. Elements of forest floor, fresh herbs and spicy cedar are apparent on the back half. Polished tannins with a long spicy red to dark fruited conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 96
2015 Escarpment Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2023-2024)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinDeep dark red core with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. Perfumed nose with violet top notes melding into ripe dark cherries, dark plum and anise with some underlying toasty cedar, forest floor and spice. Bordering on medium weight the palate is flooded with spicy rich dark cherry and dark plum flavours which meld into anise, some toast, forest floor and traces of herbs. Fine grained tannins have good underlying structure. Excellent power wave finishing with a long spicy ripe dark cherry, dark plum, anise, toasty oak and forest floor aftertaste.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 94
2018 Escarpment NOIR Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2020-2024)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinNOIR is Escarpment’s new entry level Pinot which is a bright fruit forward wine made for immediate enjoyment. Barrel aged for 11 months. Slightly cloudy red colour with a light red hue. Alluring aromas of violets, ripe cherries and strawberries laced with clove are delivered with plenty of intensity. Hints of sour cherries, forest floor and spicy fresh herbs are also apparent. Delicious ripe cherry and strawberry fruits show terrific power and drive across the palate. Underneath are elements of forest floor, subtle clove and spiced fresh herbs. Bright acidity and polished tannins lead into a lengthy finish that’s quite moreish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 93
2018 Domaine Fabien Coche Bourgogne RougeBurgundy, FRANCE$52. 99Bottle$635.88 DozenCellar: 4 - 5 Years (2024-2025)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkBright red colour with subtle tinges of black around the edges and a light crimson purple hue. Perfumed violet and rose petal like top notes mix with freshly crushed red to dark cherries, winter strawberries, clove, earth and spice. Light in body the palate is generously fruited with red cherry, red raspberry and strawberries that have a vibrant feel over a back drop of inky earth characters, dried herbs and light spicy cedar. Crunchy acidity provides the finish with plenty of freshness. Slightly grainy tannins with a youthful medium to long aftertaste.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 95
2017 Domaine Faiveley Chambolle Musigny Les Fuees Premier CruBurgundy, FRANCE$310. 00Bottle$3720.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkDomaine Faiveley was founded in 1825, and while they have been known for producing outstanding quality wines throughout this time, they are widely considered one of the most improved domaines in Burgundy over the last decade. Since taking over from his father Francois, Erwan Faiveley has made a deliberate decision to emphasise freshness and purity of fruit rather than fruit extraction, and at times, excessive use of new oak. This change has resulted in wines with greater refinement and vineyard character expression.
The Les Fuées parcel is situated in the north of Chambolle Musigny, just after Bonnes Mares Grand Cru.
Other Reviews....
A tightly woven texture embraces the cherry, black currant, spice and mineral flavors embedded here. Mint hints and floral accents add depth as this cruises to a long conclusion. Excellent acidity drives the fresh aftertaste. Best from 2023 through 2045.
95 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator -
- 91
2022 Famille Roux Les Cotilles Pinot NoirVin de France, FRANCE$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2024-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkDark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Ripe cherry and strawberry aromas mix with vanillin cedar, dried herbs, scorched earth and spice. Generously weighted dark cherry and strawberry fruits overlay an earth, subtle dried herb and spicy cedar back drop. Ripe, slightly chewy mouth feel with grainy tannins and an amply fleshed conclusion.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 89
2021 Famille Roux Les Cotilles Pinot NoirVin de France, FRANCE$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2023-2026)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkSemi translucent dark red core with black toned edges and a light red hue. Clove infused aromas of red and sour cherries mix with earth and spicy dried herb notes. Light in body and very elegant in its feel, a mix of sour and red cherry fruits are featured over a clove, earth and spice back drop. Fine grained tannins with brisk acidity imparting freshness onto the delicate finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 95
2023 Farr Rising Pinot NoirGeelong, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$63. 99Bottle$767.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkDelicious red fruits adorn a light expansive palate that has an elegant feel.
Planted in 2001 to a mix of MV6, 114 and 115 clones, the Farr Rising Pinot Noir vineyard consists of grey sandy loam soils mixed with an ironstone pebble, leading to black volcanic soil over limestone at the bottom of the vineyard. While the By Farr wines see 60-100% whole bunches included, Farr Rising Pinot uses 30-40% depending on the vintage conditions. Each vintage these Farr Rising wines edge ever closer to their By Farr siblings.
Dark red core with black toned surrounds and a vibrant red hue. Fragrant violet, red cherry and winter strawberry scents intermingle with hints of rhubarb, subtle brambly cedar, forest floor, dried herb and spice notes. Delicious red cherry, winter strawberry and rhubarb fruits unfold across the light expansive palate with a feeling of elegance. Lending further nuance are dried herb, forest floor, brambly cedar and spice elements. Fresh underlying acidity and finely integrated tannins provide the framework. Concludes long, refined and savoury.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 98
2017 By Farr RP Cote Vineyard Pinot NoirGeelong, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkThe initials RP stand for Robyn Pamela, Nick Farr’s mum and matriarch of the Farr family. The fruit for this wine is sourced from the Côte Vineyard, it’s a close-planted parcel on an exposed slope, with hillsides facing north, northeast and east comprising of the most suitable clones, rootstocks, trellising and management you’ll find on the Farr’s landscape. Fruit is handpicked and sorted in the vineyard, then fermented in an open-top fermenter. Between 40 to 50% of the fruit will be destemmed and then cold soaked for four days. Maturation takes place in 50 to 60% new Allier French oak barrels for 18 months.
This is one of the great Pinots we have made, with fantastic ageing potential – Nick Farr
Deep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a bright light red hue. Perfumed, captivating and intense the nose sends a complex array of violets, red to dark cherry, strawberry, subtle clove, forest floor, dried herb and spicy cedar aromatics sailing through the olfactory senses. A flood of rich dark cherry and ripe strawberry fruits expand across the breadth of the palate like a peacocks tail. Some meaty characters, clove, subtle vanillin cedar, forest floor and spicy dried herb characters then ensue. Texturally supple in its feel with super fine, velvet like tannins and bracing fresh acidity providing a great framework. Exemplary power with a very long and deliciously savoury finish. A stunning Burgundy inspired Pinot.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 97
2022 Farrside by Farr Pinot NoirGeelong, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2024-2034)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkThe Farrside vineyard consists of black volcanic soil over limestone on a northeast- facing slope. The vine rows run east to west to shade the fruit from over exposure. It’s a mixture of 114, 115, 777, 667 and MV6 clones. Although the Farrside and Sangreal vineyards are only 300m apart, the differing conditions mean that this vineyard is picked 10 to 12 days later. The fruit is hand-picked and sorted in the vineyard, then fermented in an open-top fermenter. Roughly 40-50% of the fruit will be destemmed and then cold soaked for four days. Winemaker Nick Farr uses only the natural yeast for the fermentation process, which takes roughly 12 days. Grape-stomping (known as pigeage) will occur two to three times a day depending on the amount of extraction required, and the wine is then placed in 50-60% new Allier barrels by gravity. It is racked by gas after secondary fermentation, then again at 18 months to be bottled.
Semi translucent red core with dark red toned edges and a light red hue. Soaring out of the glass with a perfumed like intensity are aromatics of violet, sour and red cherries, winter strawberries and dried clove which are trailed by some brambly rhubarb like notes, forest floor and spicy cedar. Light in body yet possessing terrific power, expansive red cherry and winter strawberry fruits are layered across the palate with a supple feel. Structured yet beautifully rendered fine grained tannins impart an underlying muscularity. Lending further sophistication are notions of rhubarb, a dash sour cherries, clove, brambly cedar, forest floor and spicy dried meat characters. Finishes fresh, exceptionally long and highly complex.
Drink over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 88
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Fat Bastard Pinot NoirPays d'Oc, FRANCE$14. 99Bottle$179.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesABV: 13%Closure: StelvinMid weighted with a relatively sweet and jammy flavour profile.
Semi translucent dark red colour with black shaded edges and a red to dark red hue. Cherry, plum and strawberry jam aromas are followed by hints of dried herbs and earth. Relatively sweet and jammy, the mid weighted palate features strawberry and plum jam flavours over a delicate earth and cinnamon spice back drop. Well fleshed with slightly dryish tannins and spicy finish of modest length.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 13% -
- 89
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2022 Fat Bastard Pinot NoirPays d'Oc, FRANCE$14. 99Bottle$179.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2024-2026)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinDark red in colour with black shaded edges and a red to dark red hue. Dark to black cherry aromas mix with anise, scorched earth and dried herb notes. Light to mid weight the palate features juicy dark to black cherry and anise flavours over scorched earth, dried herbs and spice. Fleshy mouth feel with slightly chewy tannins and a ripe medium length finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 89
2021 Fat Bastard Pinot NoirPays d'Oc, FRANCE$14. 99Bottle$179.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2023-2026)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red in colour with black toned edges and a red hue. Spicy dark cherry and plum aromas mix with toasty oak and dried herb notes. Elegant and savoury the lighter bodied palate features a mix of red to morello cherry fruit over scorched earth, dried herbs and spice. Polished tannins with a slightly dusty, medium powered finish.
Drink over next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 87
2017 Fat Bastard Pinot NoirPays d'Oc, FRANCE$14. 99Bottle$179.88 DozenCellar: 2 - 3 Years (2021-2022)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSemi translucent dark red colour with a light red hue. Scents of dark cherries and plum laced with toasty characters, dried herbs and spice evolve from the glass. Light and elegant the palate is flavoured with red cherries and subtle strawberries which are underpinned by earthy dried herbs and spice. Finishes dry and a little short with bright acidity and slightly chalky tannins. Modest aftertaste.
Cellar 2-3 years.
Alc. 13% -
- 96
- 95
2018 Felton Road Bannockburn Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenCellar: 5 - 6 Years (2024-2025)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinFruit was sourced from Felton Road’s four vineyards (Elms, MacMuir, Calvert and Cornish Point) to maximise diversity of aroma and flavour. Twenty percent whole clusters were included in the ferment with ageing taking place in French oak of which 27% was new for a period of 13 months.
A deep dark red core is surrounded by black tinged edges with a bright light red hue. Sailing out of the glass are intense aromatics of dark cherries, plum and anise with a gentle violet overlay. Notions of forest floor, some meatiness and spicy cedar following on. Rich ripe dark cherry, strawberry and plum flavours power across the palate underscored by anise, subtle forest floor and spicy oak elements. Terrific depth and drive with the supplely textured fruit framed by velvet like tannins. Concludes with a long deeply fruited aftertaste.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%
Other Reviews....
Felton Road Pinot Noirs are among the most exciting and celebrated wines in New Zealand. Winemaker Blair Walter is known for consistently producing distinctive, aromatic wines, and the Bannockburn cuvée—named for a subregion of Central Otago—is typically among the top-scoring bottles each vintage. This wine is a blend of four organic and biodynamic estate vineyards: Cornish Point, Calvert, MacMuir and The Elms. 2018 was an overall warm growing season in Central Otago, adding to the supple texture and fresh red fruit flavors. Walter believes in minimal intervention, including native yeast fermentation, with about 20 percent whole clusters, gravity-flow practices in the winery and bottling the wines without fining or filtering.
Aromatic and expressive, with raspberry, cherry and fresh herb notes that are precise on a smooth and supple frame, offering details of matcha green tea, white pepper and forest floor. A hint of fresh nutmeg lingers on the long, expressive finish, where the tannins provide a slight grip. Drink now through 2034.
95 points
Wine Spectator -
- 98
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2024 Felton Road Cornish Point Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: StelvinFelton Road's vineyards are managed using organic and biodynamic viticulture, ensuring the highest quality fruit arrives at the winery. From there winemaking is intentionally hands off with gravity flow, wild yeasts, wild malo, and an avoidance of fining and filtration to help preserve the expression of its terroir. Felton Road farms four properties totalling 32 ha in the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago. The fruit for this wine is a blend of four vineyards; Cornish Point, Calvert, MacMuir and The Elms.
The 2024 Cornish Point Pinot Noir reflects the unique lakeside mesoclimate of this vineyard, where meticulous hand-farming and low-yielding vines deliver fruit of remarkable purity and depth. Harvested under cool autumn conditions, the wine was fermented with 25% whole clusters and matured for 13 months in French oak (20% new). Expect a richly structured yet finely poised Pinot, balancing concentration with freshness and elegance.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews....
This is so perfumed, with violet, fresh strawberry and black cherry aromas. It’s medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins and a persistent and caressing finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
98 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 98
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2024 Felton Road Block 3 Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$145. 00Bottle$1740.00 DozenABV: 13.8%Closure: StelvinFelton Road's vineyards are managed using organic and biodynamic viticulture, ensuring the highest quality fruit arrives at the winery. From there winemaking is intentionally hands off with gravity flow, wild yeasts, wild malo, and an avoidance of fining and filtration to help preserve the expression of its terroir. Felton Road farms four properties totalling 32 ha in the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago. The fruit for this wine is a blend of four vineyards; Cornish Point, Calvert, MacMuir and The Elms.
The Block 3 Pinot Noir comes from the heart of The Elms vineyard, where north-facing slopes and deep silt soils interlaced with calcareous seams deliver fruit of remarkable depth and finesse. Hand-tended throughout the season, the grapes were harvested under cool autumn conditions, with 25% whole clusters included in the ferment. Aged 13 months in French oak (20% new), expect a finely structured Pinot of purity, concentration, and long-term potential.
Alc. 13.8%Other Reviews....
Aromas of ripe strawberries, plums and granite with a mineral undertone. It’s tannic with chewy tannins and a crushed character. Smoky, too. From organically grown grapes. Needs a few more years of bottle age to soften, but it’s already impressive. Screw cap.
98 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- Biodynamic
2023 Felton Road Block 5 Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$140. 00Bottle$1680.00 DozenClosure: StelvinCommencing with meticulous site selection and vineyard design in 1991, Felton Road's story is one of refusal to compromise. A strict 100% estate policy with fully organic and biodynamic viticulture ensures that the fruit arrives at the winery as pure as can be, while the entire estate comes as close to true sustainability as is possible. A commitment to hands-off winemaking: gravity flow; indigenous yeasts and malolactic; an avoidance of fining and filtration; all help preserve the wine's expression of its terroir. The result is Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir which accurately express the authenticity and complexity of the unique vineyards.
Felton Road manages four properties covering 34 hectares in the Bannockburn subregion of Central Otago. Block 5, located on a mild north-facing slope within The Elms vineyard, was planted in 1993.
-
- 96
- Biodynamic
2023 Felton Road Calvert Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$105. 00Bottle$1260.00 DozenClosure: StelvinCommencing with meticulous site selection and vineyard design in 1991, Felton Road's story is one of refusal to compromise. A strict 100% estate policy with fully organic and biodynamic viticulture ensures that the fruit arrives at the winery as pure as can be, while the entire estate comes as close to true sustainability as is possible. A commitment to hands-off winemaking: gravity flow; indigenous yeasts and malolactic; an avoidance of fining and filtration; all help preserve the wine's expression of its terroir. The result is Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir which accurately express the authenticity and complexity of the unique vineyards.
Felton Road manages four properties covering 34 hectares in the Bannockburn subregion of Central Otago. Calvert Vineyard is located on Felton Road and is just 1km east of The Elms Vineyard and the winery.
Other Reviews....
Lifted aromas of strawberries, cherries and orange peel. The palate is pure with finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, giving notes of raspberries, dried herbs, wet bark and cedar. Very tightly wound with a high tension that will unravel in years to come. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
96 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 96
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2023 Felton Road Bannockburn Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinFelton Road's vineyards are managed using organic and biodynamic viticulture, ensuring the highest quality fruit arrives at the winery. From there winemaking is intentionally hands off with gravity flow, wild yeasts, wild malo, and an avoidance of fining and filtration to help preserve the expression of its terroir. Felton Road farms four properties totalling 32 ha in the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago. The fruit for this wine is a blend of four vineyards; Cornish Point, Calvert, MacMuir and The Elms.
Aged for 13 months in 25% new French oak barrels with 20% whole clusters included in the ferment.
Deep dark red black tinged colour with a dark purple hue. Intense ripe dark cherry, dark plum and anise aromas leap from the glass with hints of violet, spicy cedar, fresh herbs and forest floor also evident. Rich and juicy yet possessing an underlying firmness, a power wave of delicious dark cherry, anise and dark plum fruits are delivered with terrific concentration. Infusions of fresh herbs, lightly toasted cedar, forest floor and spice characters ensue. Fresh and expansive in its feel it has sturdy yet relatively polished tannin structure. Concludes long, generously fruited and spicy.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5% -
- 97
- 95
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2022 Felton Road Block 5 Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$140. 00Bottle$1680.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: StelvinCommencing with meticulous site selection and vineyard design in 1991, Felton Road's story is one of refusal to compromise. A strict 100% estate policy with fully organic and biodynamic viticulture ensures that the fruit arrives at the winery as pure as can be, while the entire estate comes as close to true sustainability as is possible. A commitment to hands-off winemaking: gravity flow; indigenous yeasts and malolactic; an avoidance of fining and filtration; all help preserve the wine's expression of its terroir. The result is Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir which accurately express the authenticity and complexity of the unique vineyards.
Felton Road manages four properties covering 34 hectares in the Bannockburn subregion of Central Otago. Block 5, located on a mild north-facing slope within The Elms vineyard, was planted in 1993.
Other Reviews....
There is an opulence and intensity here yet it remains fresh and vivid with orange peel and ripe strawberry aromas and flavors. Medium to full body with firm and racy tannins that give it tension and focus. Clear and naked in so many ways giving it a clarity that is appreciated. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Better in two or three years. Screw cap.
97 Points
JamesSuckling.comThe 2022 Block 5 Pinot Noir leads with pronounced oak on the nose, but it’s a gently dusty, raw cocoa, sandalwood sort of character and does not overwhelm the fruit. In the mouth, the fruit is spicy and full, and it behaves in a most attractive fashion. The wine enters gently and plumes through the mid-palate and finish for an expansive, voluminous experience. A wonderful wine, clearly with the most pronounced presence in the lineup of 2022 Pinots in front of me today. Excellent. 14% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2023 - 2037.
95 Points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate -
- 95
- 94
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2022 Felton Road Calvert Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$105. 00Bottle$1260.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: StelvinCommencing with meticulous site selection and vineyard design in 1991, Felton Road's story is one of refusal to compromise. A strict 100% estate policy with fully organic and biodynamic viticulture ensures that the fruit arrives at the winery as pure as can be, while the entire estate comes as close to true sustainability as is possible. A commitment to hands-off winemaking: gravity flow; indigenous yeasts and malolactic; an avoidance of fining and filtration; all help preserve the wine's expression of its terroir. The result is Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir which accurately express the authenticity and complexity of the unique vineyards.
Felton Road manages four properties covering 34 hectares in the Bannockburn subregion of Central Otago. Calvert Vineyard is located on Felton Road and is just 1km east of The Elms Vineyard and the winery.
Other Reviews....
Fantastic clarity and transparency in this wine with fresh strawberries and cherries. So bright. Medium to full body with very fine tannins that are integrated and energetic. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
95 Points
JamesSuckling.comThe 2022 Calvert Pinot Noir is currently closed and firm on the nose (although a point to note, the Calvert and Block 5 were bottled in September, and it is now late November. The other Pinots from this vintage went to bottle in May). In the mouth, however, this wine hits a massive stride. Forthright tannins accompany powerful fruit and fine acidity to make an impact. There’s pomegranate and cherry, violets, rosehips and capers, with green olive tapenade and even a hint of bone broth. Once again, the acidity in conjunction with the tannins combine to bring on a cool finish... lovely. I do love the strawberry through the finish. 14% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2023 - 2036
94+ Points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate -
- Biodynamic
2022 Felton Road Block 3 Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$140. 00Bottle$1680.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: StelvinFelton Road's vineyards are managed using organic and biodynamic viticulture, ensuring the highest quality fruit arrives at the winery. From there winemaking is intentionally hands off with gravity flow, wild yeasts, wild malo, and an avoidance of fining and filtration to help preserve the expression of its terroir.
Felton Road farms four properties totaling 32 ha in the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago. This wine is taken from Block 3 of The Elms vineyard where a deep bench of glacial soil is interspersed with calcarious seams. Fruit is fermented in open vats (with 25% being left as whole bunches) and matured in Burgundian French oak barrels of which 30% were new for a period of 13 months. Expect rich, dark fruits mingled with crushed herbs, and tannins reminiscent of chocolate creating a silky texture and a long-lasting finish.Other Reviews....
Concentrated, powerful pinot noir with a medley of dark, strong cherry/berry fruits that almost mask a subtler suggestion of floral and fresh herb characters. A moderately assertive backbone of fine, peppery oak and fruit tannins suggests good cellaring potential although the wine is certainly accessible now.
97 Points
Bob Campbell MW - The Real Review -
- 97
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2022 Felton Road Bannockburn Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinFelton Road's vineyards are managed using organic and biodynamic viticulture, ensuring the highest quality fruit arrives at the winery. From there winemaking is intentionally hands off with gravity flow, wild yeasts, wild malo, and an avoidance of fining and filtration to help preserve the expression of its terroir. Felton Road farms four properties totalling 32 ha in the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago. The fruit for this wine is a blend of four vineyards; Cornish Point, Calvert, MacMuir and The Elms.
Aged for 13 months in 25% new French oak barrels with 20% whole clusters included in the ferment.
Deep dark red core with black shaded edges and a red to dark red hue. Captivating scents of violet, dark cherry, dark plum and anise are captured by the olfactory senses followed by some fresh herb, forest floor and spicy cedar notes. Expansive and powerful yet light on its feet, the palate is engulfed with delicious dark plum, cherry and strawberry fruits which are interwoven with spicy anise, earthy forest floor, dried herb and cedar elements. Excellent intensity and drive with finely grained yet structural tannins. The long spicy conclusion loaded with dark fruits.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews….
Deliciously fragrant and intense floral aroma that follows on to the palate where it is joined by cassis, dark cherry, black Doris plum, vanilla, savoury dried herbs and mixed spice and anise flavours. This could be the best Bannockburn pinot noir that I can recall tasting. It has an ethereal texture and a backbone of fine tannins. Absolutely delicious wine!
97 points
Bob Campbell – The Real Review -
- 97
- 97
- 94
- Biodynamic
- Organic
2021 Felton Road Block 5 Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$135. 00Bottle$1620.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: StelvinOther Reviews....
The brightness and clarity of fruit is something else with hibiscus, ripe strawberries, raspberries, and slate follow through to a full body, with a tight and structured intensity at the finish. Solid tannins give it a tightness at the end. Needs four or five years to open.
97 Points
JamesSuckling.com (November 2022)Crushed berry, Ceylon tea leaves and white pepper make for a brooding and alluring nose. The palate takes up this aromatic theme, enabled by a very fine, clear streak of bright acidity. A frame of graceful, firm tannin lends structure to this elegant wine. Really poised, long and aromatic. Matured in just 25% of new French oak for 16 months. Drink 2024 - 2040.
97 Points
Anne Krebiehl MW - Decanter (October 2022)The legendary Block 5 wine, ey?
It’s powerful and graceful, full of presence and yet all the elements find parity. Dark cherry scents, clove woody nuance, dark chocolate, pipe tobacco and white pepper to sniff on. The flavours set to more dark cherry, dark chocolate but with game meat, mocha and cumin piquancy to taste. Oak is a large factor, but well integrated, the texture chewy with dusty tannin, concentration impressive yet the wine fresh. Very good in its way.
94 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front (November 2022) -
- 94
- 95
- 95
- Biodynamic
- Organic
2021 Felton Road Calvert Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinOther Reviews....
A very open and plush textured red with velvet and tile undertones. Full and layered with plums and oranges. Firm at the end. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Better in two to three years. Screw cap.
95 Points
JamesSuckling.com (November 2022)Just a hint of smoke pops up on the nose, along with red cherry and a promise of richness. More air brings something florally scented. There is much concentration and a really fine frame of tannins, this is bold with ripe, juicy cherry fruit and full of verve with very structured tannins. The vines were 20 years old, and the wine spent 16 months in 25% new French oak. Drink 2022 - 2040.
94 Points
Anne Krebiehl MW - Decanter (October 2022)From down the (Felton) Road in Bannockburn. This has a bit of get up and go.
More energy than its 2021 stablemates, this is a wine with fine, graphite tannins, succulent, dark cherry fruit character, brined black olive notes, fennel and clove complexity. It sits succulent and low in the palate, medium weight, tight and precise. Serious feeling, needing time to unfurl and good cellaring potential.
95 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front (November 2022) -
- 96
- 94
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2021 Felton Road Bannockburn Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2022-2030)ABV: 14%Closure: StelvinFelton Road's vineyards are managed using organic and biodynamic viticulture, ensuring the highest quality fruit arrives at the winery. From there winemaking is intentionally hands off with gravity flow, wild yeasts, wild malo, and an avoidance of fining and filtration to help preserve the expression of its terroir.
Felton Road farms four properties totaling 32 ha in the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago. The fruit for this wine is a blend of four vineyards; Cornish Point, Calvert, MacMuir and The Elms.
Aged for 13 months in 25% new French oak barrels with 20% whole clusters included in the ferment. Deep dark red purple core with black shaded edges and a dark red purple hue. Engulfing the nostrils are fragrant scents of violets, dark cherries and anise which meld into dark plum, subtly toasted vanillin cedar, forest floor and spicy herb notes. Rich dark cherry and plum fruits overlay strawberry, anise, spicy oak, scorched earth and dried herb elements. Excellent concentration and power with a fleshy mouthfeel supported by a sturdy tannin framework. Long moreish dark fruited conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews....
I tasted through a swag of Felton Road wines yesterday with affable winemaker, Blair Walter, all present and correct. There’s a purity and restraint to all the 2021 vintage wines that I find very appealing, and I might even suggest that it’s my favourite release of these wines to date?
Bright, raspberry, spiced strawberry and cherry, but all the red fruits here, a little savoury umami/mushroom thing, and a rosy perfume. Medium-bodied, soft but correct acidity, and a whole lot of charm here, a light fine chew to tannin adds to it all, and the finish is good and long. It’s a pretty wine, and so lovely to drink. I reckon it will show even better in a year or two. Drink 2023 - 2030+
94+ Points
Gary Walsh - The Wine Front (August 2022) -
- 95
- Biodynamic
- Organic
2021 Felton Road Block 3 Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$135. 00Bottle$1620.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: StelvinFelton Road's vineyards are managed using organic and biodynamic viticulture, ensuring the highest quality fruit arrives at the winery. From there winemaking is intentionally hands off with gravity flow, wild yeasts, wild malo, and an avoidance of fining and filtration to help preserve the expression of its terroir.
Felton Road farms four properties totaling 32 ha in the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago. This wine is taken from Block 3 of The Elms vineyard where a deep bench of glacial soil is interspersed with calcarious seams.Other Reviews....
The 25th bottling of Block 3. Time passes! Tasted alongside the 2019 and 2014 Block 3 (I liked the 2021 the best).
Intense cherry and spice, more of a ‘mineral’ feel here with an excellent set of high quality tannin, they really lay out over the mouth, a twang of burnt orange peel, and a firm finish of good length. Intensity moved up a notch in this wine, and impressive it is too. Drink 2023 - 2029+
95 Points
Gary Walsh - The Wine Front (August 2022) -
- 95
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2021 Felton Road Cornish Point Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 14%Closure: StelvinFelton Road's vineyards are managed using organic and biodynamic viticulture, ensuring the highest quality fruit arrives at the winery. From there winemaking is intentionally hands off with gravity flow, wild yeasts, wild malo, and an avoidance of fining and filtration to help preserve the expression of its terroir.
Felton Road farms four properties totaling 32 ha in the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago. This wine is from Cornish Point vineyard where the close proximity to water creates a unique mesoclimate.Other Reviews....
Tasted in a vertical of Cornish Point including 2021,2019,2018,2017,2015.
Bright red fruits, really pops, as do all of the 2021 Pinot Noir wines from Felton Road. Some rosy and floral perfume, a little spice, orange peel but also a blood/mineral thing happening. Lots of tannin, a Turkish coffee slurry of them, spicy and dry, some roast red capsicum too. Finish is long and impressive. Plenty of volume here, yet it keeps itself very tidy indeed. Excellent. Drink 2023 - 2029+
95 Points
Gary Walsh - The Wine Front (August 2022) - 2020 Felton Road Cornish Point Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 14%Closure: Screw Cap
The 2020 vintage was slightly cooler than the average growing season, resulting in wines with more profound character and depth. Blair Walter noting: "We have great expectations for the 2020 wines." Fruit sourced for their wines are fully organic and follow biodynamic viticulture, ensuring the highest quality fruit arrives at the winery. From there winemaking is intentionally hands off with gravity flow, wild yeasts, wild malo, and an avoidance of fining and filtration to help preserve the expression of its terroir.
Felton Road farms four properties totaling 32 ha in the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago. This wine is from Cornish Point vineyard where the close proximity to water creates a unique mesoclimate.
Notes from the winery....
Intense floral notes of lavender and violets along with plum, clove and dark chocolate. This smaller berried and earlier harvest at Cornish Point contributes saturating fruit, spice and hints of sandalwood on the palate. Brooding with serious intent amongst the black plum and mocha flavours, the entire package is utterly complete and there is no doubt time will reveal further complexity and intrigue. - 2020 Felton Road Block 3 Pinot NoirCentral Otago, NEW ZEALAND$130. 00Bottle$1560.00 DozenABV: 14%Closure: Screw Cap
The 2020 vintage was slightly cooler than the average growing season, resulting in wines with more profound character and depth. Blair Walter noting: "We have great expectations for the 2020 wines." Fruit sourced for their wines are fully organic and follow biodynamic viticulture, ensuring the highest quality fruit arrives at the winery. From there winemaking is intentionally hands off with gravity flow, wild yeasts, wild malo, and an avoidance of fining and filtration to help preserve the expression of its terroir.
Felton Road farms four properties totaling 32 ha in the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago. This wine is taken from Block 3 of The Elms vineyard where a deep bench of glacial soil is interspersed with calcarious seams.
Notes from the winery....
The nose contains all the characteristic array of complex aromatic notes we have come to expect from Block 3: exotic spice, dried herb, leather and deep, dark fruit. The first sip is captivating: how can a wine with such power and concentration be so enthralling yet ethereal? Further study is definitely required. It’s about balance and harmony, finesse and detail. The tannins are copious and muscular, but their chocolate coating tempers the decadence of the fruit. Wow!
An obsession with a fickle varietal.
Once you experience it, you never forget it. For some wine lovers, Pinot Noir becomes an obsession. While promising one of world's greatest wine experiences, it can also deliver some of the most disappointing. What is it about Pinot that makes it so frustratingly variable? There are known quality factors which offer encouragement to winemakers. Micro-climates have been observed to play an important part in a successful matrix, particularly the diurnal temperature range. Pinot Noir is a little like Riesling, in the sense that it requires warm, but not overly hot days and cool nights to fully develop its maximum flavour potential. Sunshine hours, rainfall, time and rate of precipitation are all important. Countering this is the fact that the same clone will not respond to differences in micro-climate in the same way. Older vines make better wines. Creative and adaptive viticultural management and winemaking are essential. Buy Pinot Noir online. Any questions about our products or shipping? Please feel free to get in touch by calling us directly on 1800 069 295 or by emailing [email protected] and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Browse and buy Pinot Noir online, spend more than $200 and you'll qualify for free delivery to most of Australia.















































