Reviewed: 9th September 2013
Felton Road – Pinot Noir – Bannockburn – 2011 (18). More meaty notes to open on the nose. Follows through on a palate that is earthy, dense and structured. Precise, long and firm, this is a very good wine, but it does need a year or two to come together. Excellent balance!
Ostler – Pinot Noir – Caroline’s – 2010 (18). Superb wine! There is lovely cherry fruit that is both dense and beautifully textured. The mouth-feel is spot on and the finish silky. The tannins and oak are very fine, yet it is the length of fruit flavours that stands this apart. Some sappy, souring notes on the finish add life.
Philippe Livera – Pinot Noir – Cote de Nuits – Villages – 2010 (17.7). The different style here is reflected in the lighter colour. This wine is leaner, has less forward fruit and more pronounced acidity than the other wines reviewed here. There is also more medium toast oak on display. There is a lovely saline character that runs through the palate that makes food highly desirable. Excellent length, this just needs a few years to hit its straps. Good purity of fruit, with a touch of earthiness and minerals. Opens to become beautifully perfumed. Not hugely complex, but attractive drinking.
Ad Hoc – Pinot Noir – Cool Mistress – 2012 (17.4). The lighter colour is reflected on both the nose and palate. A good wine, though the fruit is less dense up front. The length of flavours highlight the quality of the wine. Subtle, smoky oak to close.
Mt Maud – Pinot Noir – 2007 (17). Good fruit quality here, which has been nicely handled. On the palate, there is cherry fruit and spicy highlights. The finish is dense and long, with a silky texture. The length here is fantastic. Ready to go now.