Up-front aromas of citrus and tropical notes precede a zesty grapefruit and lemon-edged palate with good texture and bright acidity before a clean, refreshing end.
The natural brother to the Free Form White. Nothing added to this 100% Pinot Noir that was fermented in two 800-litre amphorae then aged on skins for 8 months. Totally wild wine with a nose of red plums, cherry pie, brambly raspberry and cassis that all builds in intensity. Untethered and free-spirited, this red shows bushy raspberry, tar, leather, earth and a pepper note on the palate with silky tannins and a subtle dusty cocoa note on the finish.
Dark ruby. Perfumed nose on notes of ripe red berries. Fresh fruity taste, balanced acidity in a medium- to full-bodied mid-palate. Definitely well made but without individuality or expression of a particular terroir.
I first tasted this 100% Merlot wine with the 1999 vintage, and since that time, I have been a strong advocate. With 14% alcohol, there is admirable depth, and a personality of plum, cherry, graphite, spice, bitter chocolate and vanilla. Full-bodied, there is elegance as well as a solid backbone of tannins. Drink over the next 15 years.
At this price, this Blanc offers solid bang for the buck. In the glass, the wine is light yet flavourful, singing of banana, fruit salad, lime, grass and grapefruit. There is very good length and crisp acid, making it a perfect foil for hors d’oeuvres.
Up front red and black fruit with some meaty and peppery hints introduce a plush but focused palate of raspberry, mulberry, mocha and anise, balanced by well-integrated tannins and fresh acidity that plays through the finish.
Intriguing scents of floral, spice and compost. Invitingly complex [is there a noun missing?] belies its pale garnet colour and light-to-medium body. The well-balanced palate delivers bright herbal notes along side oaky spice and rootsy earthiness. Exceptionally food-friendly, from grilled seafood to roasted vegetables to Asian fare.