Akitu White Label A2 Central Otago Pinot Noir 2017

Description

"Mainly (two-thirds) Clone 777, the 2017 Pinot Noir A2 includes almost one-fourth whole clusters and one-eighth new French oak. Floral-herbal-stemmy notes still mark the nose, but in a sexy, good-kinky sort of way, adding fragrance to deeper notes of dark cherry and plum. It’s medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a silky but firm base of tannins and a lingering, slightly tart finish" Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

"Varietal, youthfully vibrant and fruity bouquet with aromas of raspberries and dark cherries, red apples and savoury mineral combinations. Some spicy new oak suggestions add complexity. Equally vibrant and youthful on the palate with flavours that mirror the nose, abundant fruit and oak tannins. Acidity and oak adding additional texture and spark. A wine to enjoy today if decanted, otherwise best from 2020 through 2026" Cameron Douglas, Master Sommelier

Moderate intensity garnet colour to the edge with density. Plummy dark fruit with considerable depth and concentration, complemented by subtle airy herbs with a sprig of thyme and integrated brown spice overlay. Aromatic complexity and density with lift and bright cherry like fruit. These are expansive and vibrant aromatics: there is a festoon of bouquet here. The plummy fruit theme continues with a plush entry noteworthy in its concentration and generosity that builds as it progresses over the palate. Silky tannins and bright but supporting acidity give vitality and energy.

The uniqueness of the vineyard marks the wine with a powerful core of juicy fruit that holds things in a fine balance between richness and lightness. Savoury exit with length. As usual, there is so much to enjoy about this blend as a youngster, but it will be hitting its straps at 3 years with subtle complexity evolving across the fruit, but why wait?

Food Pairing: Try this lovely Pinot Noir with slow-roast duck legs and sweet-sour plums.