Vynfields Pinot Noir 08

Vynfields Pinot Noir 2008 (18.5/20), at 14.0% alc, certified organic fruit from the Martinborough Terrace, 100% destemmed, aged 14 months in 40% new French barriques, had a dark, deep, ruby red colour and a fresh, vibrant, up-front, yet deeply intense dark cherry fruited nose. On palate, this possessed lovely sweet cherry fruit backed by fine, moderately firm, but supple tannins, enlivened by excellent acidity. Hints of iodine and cedar gave real interest. A wine to enjoy over 6-8 years.  RC July 10

Judging by Kaye McAulay and John Bell’s track record, their Vynfields Pinot Noir can be reckoned to join the top tier of Martinborough Pinot Noirs soon. The last half dozen vintages, whether designated as their ‘regular’ Estate Pinot Noir, or ageworthy ‘Reserve Pinot Noir, have all won gold medals or have been rated 5 stars in authoritative judgings. Kai Schubert and Marion Deimling are the winemakers for Kaye and John who biodynamically grow their grapes from their certified organic vineyard sited in the heart of the Martinborough Terrace. The 2008 was 100% hand-picked, totally destemmed, undergoing cold maceration and aged 14 months in 40% new French oak barriques. Black-ruby red in colour, this has aromatics and flavours in the dark end of the spectrum, expressing fully ripened fruit and a healthy element of oak toasting in the form of liquorice, chocolate and mocha nuances. Supple and fine-grained in its extraction, the sweetness of the fruit makes it immediately appealing, but this will improve over the next 5-8 years. The 2008 was recently awarded 5 stars in Cuisine magazine.  RC Nov 09

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