Balance and harmony are the hallmarks of good pinot noir. Oak should support the fruit rather than dominate it; a lively edge should not have unripe fruit lingering beneath; and fruit should not be pressed so hard that the wine is harsh on the finish. It takes time for all the components to meld into a harmonious whole.
BEST VALUE
$28
Three and a half stars (out of five)
Good value
There's lots of attractive cherry fruit here, a savoury hint of dark chocolate and toasty oak, a lively edge and a crisp finish.
$35
Four stars
Good value
Slightly funky aromas, red fruits, spicy and savoury hints of dark chocolate, a silky texture, a lively backbone of acidity and a long aftertaste. A lot of delicious things are going on here.
$35
Three and a half stars
Average value
Red berry fruits with savoury undertones, hints of spice, a silky texture and dusty tannins. Well balanced, attractive and drinking nicely now.
$39
Four stars
Good value
A big young wine, powerful and concentrated with sweet fruit, savoury undertones, spice and mineral, a silky texture, a slight edge and long finish. There's a lot going on here, but it's not quite together yet - it should integrate with a few more months' bottle age.
$42
Four stars
Average value
A lively, spicy young wine with attractive berry/cherry fruit, a creamy, slightly biscuity undertone, savoury nuances and a well-structured, lively finish. It will integrate and mellow with a year or so's bottle age.
$45
Four and a half stars
Good value
Ripe fruit hinting of plums, prunes and cherries, it is mouth-filling with a lively edge, spicy, savoury undertones, supporting oak and a long, beautifully balanced and harmonious finish.
