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- 94
Neudorf 2003 Home Vineyard Pinot Noir (Moutere)
Based on old (20–25-year-old) plantings of Pommard clone, this fabulous wine blends savory, spicy scents with floral elements on the nose, then delves deep into black cherries in the mouth. Rich and velvety on the palate, with powerful fruit and the structure to age. One of the best New World Pinots I’ve ever tasted. — J.C. (12/1/2005) — 94 -
- 94
- $35
Mills Reef 2000 Elspeth One Red Blend (Hawke's Bay)
This is a rich, sumptuous red wine. It looks, smells and tastes opulent. Ripe, forward berry flavors, wrapped in considerable oak, taste full and long, and the wine flatters with thick, velvety but fine tannins. The finish is a wonder, long and intricate. The aftertaste lasts for a full minute. It’s wonderful now, but should age effortlessly for many years. A blend of Bordeaux varieties and Syrah. — S.H. (11/15/2002) — 94 -
- 93
- $60
Escarpment 2005 Kupe Pinot Noir (Martinborough)
Since its debut in 2003, this has been one of New Zealand’s top Pinot Noirs, combining power, structure and complexity. Smoky and richly peppery at first, it turns more floral with aeration, and while it’s big in the mouth, it’s also silky in texture. The black cherry, plum, vanilla and spice flavors fan out on the long, layered finish. Drink now–2015. — J.C. (11/1/2007) — 93 -
- 93
- $35
Man O' War 2008 Dreadnought Syrah (Waiheke Island)
Representing a new level of quality for Waiheke Syrah, this wine boasts captivating aromas of peppered meat, violets and cassis. It’s full bodied without being heavy, and the flavors seamlessly blend fruity with savory for a thrilling ride. Finishes long, with firm tannins and a hint of espresso. Drink now¬–2018. — J.C. (9/1/2011) — 93 -
- 93
Te Mata 2007 Coleraine Bordeaux-style Red Blend (Hawke's Bay)
Simply put, this is one of New Zealand’s flagship reds, and it is a shame it is no longer being imported to the U.S. Lifted hints of dried flowers and herbs impart great complexity to the aromas, and the wine’s cassis, cedar and chocolate flavors come across as intense without being overbearing. This is firmly structured, with plentiful but fine tannins. Drink 2015–2025. — J.C. (6/1/2010) — 93 -
- 93
- $79
Felton Road 2008 Block 5 Pinot Noir (Central Otago)
Plummy and dark, with accents of cedar, dark chocolate and hints of coffee. This is always the most robust of the Felton Road Pinots, and really deserves a few years in the cellar; although it’s approachable now, expect the already soft tannins to turn silkier in time. — J.C. (9/1/2010) — 93 -
- 93
- $80
Felton Road 2008 Block 3 Pinot Noir (Central Otago)
In 2008, the Block 3 tannins are so silky and refined they give a soft, luscious character to the wine that’s incredibly appealing. Spice, black cherry and cola notes finish long and complex. Drink now–2015. — J.C. (6/1/2010) — 93 -
- 93
- $78
Felton Road 2007 Block 5 Pinot Noir (Central Otago)
Slightly bigger than the Block 3, but simultaneously softer as well, Felton Road’s 2007 Block 5 features ripe, plummy fruit backed by earthy nuances, spice and cola. Like its stablemate, it’s lushly textured, with a long finish. Drink now–2015. — J.C. (5/1/2009) — 93 -
- 93
- $75
Felton Road 2007 Block 3 Pinot Noir (Central Otago)
Felton Road’s Pinots have been among the best in NZ, but the 2007s step things up another notch. The Block 3 combines a briary, slightly herbal element with black cherry aromas, then unfolds on the palate to reveal layers of fruit, coffee and spice. It’s lush yet structured, with a long, textured finish. Drink now–2015. — J.C. (5/1/2009) — 93
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