2008 Dry River Martinborough New Zealand Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $95. Imported by R.O. Imports, LLC, Napa, CA. Stylish long neck bottle. Tasted twice previously in November 2020 (score 94) and September 2013 (score 92). This bottle was not as appealing. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Exotic, lovely nose with aromas of very ripe black fruits, raisin, and black currant with notes of maple syrup, spice, vanilla and violet. Intense and opulent on the palate with an array of purple and black fruits including ollaliberry and black cherry. Soft, smooth, even slightly viscous, showing some secondary characters of leather and cigar box. The tannins have melded and there is touch of citrus in the background. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the flavors of sweet, very ripe black cherry and tobacco stood out. An interesting wine that should continue to satisfy for several years. Score: 90. Reviewed October 21, 2014

Winery: Dry River
From article: New Zealand Pinot Noirs from Salmanazar