On a later date we tasted the substantial Pinot from Amisfield alongside this gem from Australia.
Kooyong Mornington Peninsula Haven Pinot Noir 2004
This is one of the single vineyard bottlings from Kooyong. Tasted a year later in December ’08, there are stewed red fruits and smokiness. In the mouth, the wine is quite concentrate with plenty of acidity, a touch of oak and a layer of ripe, velvety tannins – still a baby. P&B in Tuerong in Victoria 13% $54.99 at K&L Kooyong
This flight features 3 wines from Central Otago on New Zealand’s South Island and one from the Russian River Valley.
Sleeping Dogs Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005
There’s lots of cherry cola to smell and taste in this light bodied wine with bright acidity. Produced in Cromwell 13.4% $22.99 at Bottle Barn
La Crema Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2005
The cherry cola blends with sweet oak and a little warmth. This is a silky Pinot with a softer acid profile than the Sleeping Dogs. Winemaker Melissa Stackhouse. P&B in Windsor 14.5% $ at the winery La Crema
Amisfield Central Otago Pinot Noir 2005
This wine combines berries, earthiness and black pepper. There is lots of extract and some tannin for aging. Produced in Queenstown 13.9% $26.49 at Bottle Barn Amisfield
Rockburn Central Otago Pinot Noir 2003
The fruit is stewing as this wine ages and evolves but still enjoyable in an acidic framework. P&B in Queenstown 14.5% $27.99 at Bottle Barn Rockburn