Light pale gold in colour, this is a big wine with 14.5% alc. Full and dense with musky, yellow stonefruit aromas and flavours, the fruit is enrichened by its off-dry palate and lush honied characters. Overall, the minerally, spiced pear varietal expression remains true and steadfast. Smoke and earth nuances unfold in the glass. A little alcoholic heat comes through, but enjoyed in its proper context, with textural foods, this is of little consequence and in fact adds to its versatility and robustness. T textbook Pinot Gris that many New Zealand producers would do well to imitate. RC Oct 09