Gate 20 Two Vineyard Pinot Noir

Smoke and spice on the nose initially, very complex and intriguing. There is black cherry, blackberry along with notes of warm iron and earth. Some classic Bannockburn aromatics here.The palate is tight and coiled at this stage, hinting at the concentration and depth of this low yielding vintage. There are red and black cherry along with a line of dried herbs (sage, thyme) from the whole bunch fermentation inclusion. The tannins are firm but fine, framing the fruit on the palate beautifully. This gives a lovely long finish, with tamarillo and cranberry notes.

Central Otago, New Zealand

(Image source from Misha's vineyard, Central Otago)

Central Otago has quickly established itself as ground zero for Pinot Noir in New Zealand-in the words of Jancis Robinson, "many believe this is where the Pinot grail is to be found".