Ranked #8 of 130 2016 Pinot Noir from Tasmania
96/100
5 Stars
Huon Hooke
Medium to light cherry-red colour with a strong purple tint. The bouquet is fresh and bright, young and fruit-driven with a cherry-essence, slightly estery aroma, with some banana-like yeasty, primary ferment character. Smoky oak is there, and comes up with a bit of airing. In the mouth, it's intense and balanced, beautifully framed and precise, with gentle texture and silky tannins. A delightful lighter style pinot. Medium length. The oak is a trifle obvious on the nose, but not the palate: a year in the cellar should pay dividends. (Trophy, best pinot, 2017 Sydney Royal Wine Show. 500 cases. 15% new oak)
Tasted: 30/07/2017
Drink: 2018 to 2028
95 Points James Halliday
There is a slight lift on the bouquet from partial barrel fermentation and long lees contact. This is a fitting complement to the power of the primary fruit flavours of strawberry and fresh berry compote. There is a softness to this Pinot Noir, the silky or satin like tannin-structure is first rate, with just enough back-palate weight from stalk use and light French oak, to hold its length. Drink to 2029.
James Halliday. September, 2022