A1 Pinot Noir, Akitu 2021

Red cherry dominates the nose deliciously, both juicy flesh and crunchy skin, along with some cherry stone lift. The palate falls into step, providing tension, delicacy with very fine tannins that give way with the gentlest crunch, enticing and appetising, showing the altitude of these Mount Barker vineyards in Wanaka. It is the bright, vivid freshness, however, that defines this in its elegance and full-fruited intensity, with just a touch of heat. The finish reinforces that juicy fruit as well as the beautiful tannin structure that will allow this to age effortlessly. Drink 2026-2036.

The 2021 Pinot Noir A1 is almost good enough to eat with its density of flavor and rich texture that will leave you chewing on it appreciatively. It has an abundance of tannin (in the context of Pinot Noir), which is cleverly integrated within the core of the wine, creating a mesh-like sensation. It's not a big wine but has plenty of substance within its medium-bodied frame. A concentration of flavor is layered with ripe cherry fruit and herbal characters. A balsamic tinge joins oak-derived cedar notes. Long, scented and textural, this is a wine you want to get your mouth around.