2008 Escarpment Martinborough New Zealand Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $35. Imported by Meadowbank Estates, Alexandria, VA. The vineyard at Escarpment is planted on alluvial gravel terraces at the foot of the Aorangi Mountains. Vinified by Larry McKenna, known in New Zealand as the “Prince of Pinot.” · Moderate reddish-purple hue in the glass. Nice array of spicy red and black fruits on the expressive nose. Full-bodied and very ripe core of dark red and black fruits with complimentary oak vanillin and spice in the background, displaying a creamy mouth feel, and exhibiting a modest persistence on the finish. Very good (-). Reviewed November 29, 2011

Winery: Escarpment
From article: Recent Sips of New Zealand Pinot