2024 Reserve Pinot Noir

So much to enjoy here – all the senses come alive. Bright purple-cherry red crimson hues. Summer berries, fresh and compote-style, rise in cherries, berries, plum and cranberry with aromatic scents of rose petal, rosehip and dried herbs. Bursts in freshness on the tongue with a life and energy of its own. Hints of confection and florals mingle among the berries and cherries, earth and spice with a light blood orange rind citrus twang. There is an infectious vibrancy to the fruit but also depth and concentration – the best of both Pinot worlds. So pure, precise, almost sultry with a super fresh acidity and the finest of tannins, the kind to take it well into the future.

Fully destemmed with a small amount of whole bunch. Matured in French puncheons (16% new). A bright ruby crimson. Dark fruits, a little sous bois and a savoury element can be found in this Reserve, which is more approachable than the '23. It's medium bodied and generous on the palate, and while it can certainly be approached now, with food, this will need a little time for the tannins to meld into the fruit, say four to six years.

A brilliant crimson-red colour provides the first indication of this wine’s brightness and energy. The nose is a compelling mix of sour cherry and raspberry with subtle spice. The palate is super fine, yet there is tremendous depth and intensity. It’s still taut and tightly coiled, but gradually opens to reveal delicate floral and spicy varietal characters. There’s wonderful energy coursing through the palate, carrying effortlessly to a very long finish.

Re-tasted two days after opening, this had fully emerged from its shell and had developed a lovely fragrance and more intensity on the palate. Lots of detail of red fruits, dried herbs and spices; superfine tannins. Its slow emergence augurs well for its future.

Not too much of this (winemaking influence), not too much of that (acid and fruit concentration), but it is all there, dancing together at the disco. Wild strawberry, paprika, strawberry wine, lavender and a touch of char. In the mouth, it holds itself well: tensioned, detailed and composed. The savoury elements become more noticeable, adding sophistication and offering a nod to smart hands. The length is good and the fruit is pure, with touches of maraschino and sour cherry, plus a few snapped twigs. Vibrant and balanced, with tannins that add power and presence. Buy it. Then drink it with someone under 30, make them research the tasting notes and talk about the wine. Maybe even ask for a slideshow.