2009 Rippon Vineyard Tinker’s Field Lake Wanaka Central Otago New Zealand Pinot Noir

13.6% alc., pH 3.67, TA 0.60, 105 cases, 14 cases imported, $99. From a unique parcel within Rippon Vineyard that contains the oldest vines on the property. Named after Rippon’s founder, Rolfe Mills, known as “Tink” to his friends. Clones 5, 6, 2/10, 10/5,13 and Linc. 35% whole cluster. Aged 15 months in 42% new to 4-year-old French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light, slightly hazy, ruby red color in the glass. A savory wine with aromas of dark red and blue fruits, exotic spices, earth, compost, and stem. A little more structured and intensely fruited than the Emma’s Block Pinot Noir, with layers of flavors including cherry, cranberry, blueberry, spice, sandalwood and the faintest oak. The acidity is crisp and well-integrated and the fine-grain tannins are ripe and sturdy. The finish is remarkable in length, like a 3-hour movie you don’t want to end. The most backward of the three 2009 Rippon Pinot Noirs, but still enough precocious tease to attract your attention. Reviewed November 24, 2012

Winery: Rippon
From article: Station Imports Brings In the Best from New Zealand