Central Otago Pinot Noir, Burn Cottage Vineyard 2017

This has very attractive, ripe red-cherry and plum aromas with spicy and sappy complexity, sitting in such a pure mode. The palate has a very composed and compact, layered feel with pristine blueberry, dark-cherry and plum flavors, delivered in an elegant, regal style. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.

The 2017 Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir shows considerable intensity and length, but it starts off with charming floral notes, hints of thyme and cedar and lashings of black cherries. It's that elusive combination of concentration and complexity, wrapped in a silky coat of ripe tannins, that raises this wine to the next level. It should drink well for a decade or more.

If you thought Central Otago was all about bright, fruit-driven Pinot, then get this in your glass. This biodynamic vineyard overlooking Cromwell has produced a mellow, savoury and nuanced expression with the most beautifully handled tannins of the vintage - they are mouthcoating yet provide structure in combination with the fresh acidity.