2014 Akitu “A1” Black Label Central Otago Pinot Noir

$29.99, screwcap. Imported by DJK Imports, South San Francisco, CA. This is the premier wine of the estate. Vineyard is near the town of Wanaka in one of the highest and coldest spots in the region with dense schist soils. 71% Abel, 17% Pommard 5, and 11% 115. 28% whole cluster. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 24% new. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Very complex nose displaying hitone aromas of black cherry, black raspberry, peppered beef, beef bouillon, cake spice and a hint of oak. The flavors echo the aromas in a middleweight format. A very lovely wine with admirable balance and a finishing burst of fruit that really hangs on. Score: 92. Reviewed February 5, 2016

Winery: Akitu
From article: Revisiting New Zealand Pinot Noir on the Occasion of Spectacular 2013 Vintage