New Zealand Pinot Noir

To be honest, I haven't had much Pinot Noir lately. I have a friend who is a Pinot Noir nut! So, I usually save most of my Pinot to have with him. He's been away on holiday for the last few week (Cape Town, South Africa). Tonight, I couldn't resist! I have opened a bottle of New Zealand Pinot. I really like New Zealand Pinot Noir; it has the right climate for this variety and makes much more affordable expressions of this grape than Burgundy.

Sherwood Estate, 'Stratum' Pinot Noir, 2008, Marlborough, New Zealand.

Great light ruby red Pinot colour. It's looking good from the start. There is a wildness to this wine - in a good way. Wild strawberry and mild cherry are dominant on the nose. Delicate underpinnings of violet and spices. The nose is quite focused. The palate is really smooth and the tannins soft. The palate has some soft red fruits but with more oaky, peppery spice to it. The palate is also slightly earthy and wild. This is a lovely wine and a good example of Marlborough Pinot. Good value for money. 4/5 (12.5% abv) £8.99 Oddbins.