If you buy wine by the pretty label, look no further. The best Pinot’s made by the Kiwi’s are made in Central Otago . However most are priced beyond our budget. This one is like Kramer in Karate class. It’s not fair …….. how inexpensive this is. Blast the door open to your buddies apartment and cook up the Ontario lamb from his fridge.

This Pinot Noir is youthful and fresh with bright red cherry, plum, vanilla and earthy on the nose. The mouthfeel is definitely fruitier than earthy, with lively acidity, silky tannins and cherry cola flavour in mid palate. A very enjoyable Pinot, with berries, sweet spices and light tannins on the finish. A little overpriced but a well made Pinot Noir with a very stylish label and ageing potential.

Australian born owner/winemaker Ant Moore has created an aromatic wine with forward scents of dark berries, cherries, forest underbrush, cedar and vanilla, with touches of cherry cola that reappear on the palate. A good acidity carries the moderate tannins and youthful character. Attractive mocha and spice notes add to its appeal. Drink now through 2013.

nose: Raspberry, some cranberry & mint, (a hint of dark chocolate?), sawdust and alcohol. Palate: Sour cranberry/cherry/raspberry, a bit woody. Bright acidity, mild tannin. Short, slightly sour finish. A good Pinot but a bit overpriced. This would actually be a fantastic match for a turkey dinner. In fact, I may even grab another bottle or two just to put away for Thanksgiving. This got better and more interesting as it went along.

Medium minus to light garnet in colour with medium intensity.

Positives: Earth notes dominate with fall leaves, mushrooms, & suede followed by sour cherry, rhubarb & cranberry. A lighter style Pinot with good acidity, soft tannins & a long length.

Negatives: There is some bitterness on the mid palate, but dissipates thanks to the long finish. I'm not crazy about the label, looks like Nouveau Beaujolais.

Interesting Point: It's unusual to find a Central Ortago Pinot this inexpensive, but I found it muted compared to other Ortago Pinots. Reminds me more of Côte de Beaune. Food friendly wine that I would pair with turkey. Drink now or over the next 3 years.

Tasted: 11 Feb 12

Score: 8.5, Value: 9.5/10, Total: 18/20

Out of 5 stars, I rated this wine: 3.5