2014 Valli Bannockburn Pinot Noir, Central Otago

Dark, deep, ruby-red colour with purple hues, a little lighter on the edge. This has a very full, soft, near-ethereal nose of savoury dark red berry fruits with suggestions of red-brown fruits along with earthy and dried herb layers harmoniously interwoven with subtle whole bunch stalk nuances. This is well-packed and blossoms with ease. Medium-full bodied, the palate features soft and fulsome flavours of rich and succulent savoury red berry fruits unfolding layers of earth and sweet cedar, dried herbs and nuances of whole bunch stalk hints. The mouthfeel is very harmonious and balanced with supple and fine-grained tannin structure supporting the sweet fruit. Soft acidity adds to the richness and rounded mouthfeel. The wine flows smoothly to a soft, long, blossoming finish of sweet red fruits and savoury complexities. This is a mouthfilling, harmonious and succulent, savoury, red fruited Pinot Noir with fine tannins and complexing layers. Match with Middle Eastern lamb and slow-cooked game meats over the next 6-8 years.