Wine Spectator 93:
Presents pretty clove, nutmeg and cardamom details that are a lovely complement to the sleek maraschino cherry, raspberry and cranberry flavors at the core. A touch of malty Assam tea lingers on the finish, adding a firm note. Drink now through 2035.
Also outstanding for the Tasting Panel:
Cinnamon and mushroom convene with wild straw- berry and cherry tobacco in this single-vineyard expression from a family- owned organic vineyard called Someone's Darling. Vibrant acidity sparks the liquid, lifting notes of dried violets, white pepper, and pomegranate. A touch of smoke appears on the finish.
And the Wine Enthusiast, too:
Cedar shavings, tree sap, bay leaf and other savory herbs and spices are at the fore on this distinctive Pinot. Underneath lurk ripe, red and black fruit and some smoky oak. The palate is tightly wound in chalky tannins. There's a good deal of drying, toasty barrel influence. But there's also lovely crisp acidity and densely packed fruit. Drink 2024—2030.
But the most impressive review may be the 93-point one from Vinous:
The 2021 Pinot Noir requires you to be patient. It's young and somewhat confrontational, begging for bottle age, and knowing the New Zealand market, it won't enjoy that luxury. Shame. The wine is like a powerful baby with its intensity, density and savory, brooding nature. There's huge concentration and power wrapped in its core, propelling the wine forward and giving it a sense of attack. The finish is dry and savory, with oak-derived smoke and spice most prominent on the long finish. Pair it with a solid piece of red meat or game and slow-cooked mushrooms if you drink it now. Better still, hold your horses; this is going to age well.
Central Otago Pinot Noirs can be wonderful – as well as New Zealand’s finest. But they are often quite expensive. This one, which outscores many famous $70 examples, is remarkably reasonable…especially at our $25 price.
(Wine.com sells this for $36.99. And the nearest store to us to have any, in Virginia, for $48.99.)
