2020 Valli Vineyards Bendigo Vineyard Pinot Noir - Bendigo Central Otago NZ

Deep garnet hue with an array of intriguing aromas including black cherry, cassis, liquorice, mocha, cedar, forest floor and flint. Wow – there is a lot going on! The palate is equally complex with layers of dark fruit, spice and umami that are woven together by a fresh vein of acidity. The texture is rich and mouth-filling with silky, fine tannins that build in the mouth giving a long, memorable finish. Powerful yet refined, this is quintessential Bendigo Pinot with a tangy freshness that comes from grapes grown at elevation. There is a mysterious element to this vintage that is quite captivating in its youth with promise to evolve and show more character if cellared for up to 15 years.

"Complex and pure, more than just varietal a bouquet - layers of texture scents with sense of place and time then fruit aromas of crushed cherry flesh and preserved roses, raspberry and a soft savoury thyme quality. Seamless on the palate with a youthful core structure from fine needle point tannins and acid line, plush velvet mouthfeel with contrasting plum, cherry and even a touch of blueberry fruit. Oak flavours and tannins are layered throughout the wine teasing the senses, salivating and adding just a touch of sweetness then light smoky baking spices. Fantastic wine with best drinking from 2023 through 2030+."

98 Points - Cam Douglas