2023 Elio Ottin Pinot Noir DOP, Valle d’Aosta

A fragrant pinot noir with fresh, super-floral aromas of roses, violets, strawberries and red cherries. Vinous and supple. It shows crisp acidity, a tight palate and a medium body. Drink now.

92 points James Suckling

Elio Ottin has become one of the most interesting small producers in Italy's Valle d'Aosta, crafting wines that reflect the dramatic mountain landscape surrounding Aosta. Having grown up in a farming family, Ottin established his own winery in 2007, bringing a thoughtful, hands-on approach to the region's steep vineyards. His Pinot Noir is a lovely expression of the variety's elegance in an Alpine setting.

The vineyards benefit from sunny mountain slopes, cool nights and the region's naturally dry climate. These conditions encourage slow ripening, preserving Pinot Noir's delicate perfume and lively acidity while developing beautifully defined fruit. The 2023 is a graceful, medium-bodied expression with plenty of regional character.

Bright ruby red with translucent edges. Wild strawberry, red cherry and raspberry mingle with rose petals, dried thyme and a little earthy spice. The palate is supple and finely textured, with juicy red fruit, refreshing acidity and delicate tannins. Hints of forest floor, white pepper and crushed stone add savoury complexity to the lingering finish.

Try it with duck breast and beetroot, wild mushroom and taleggio polenta, or grilled ocean trout with lentils and herbs. Its gentle tannins and fresh fruit also make it a lovely match for Japanese mushroom and vegetable dishes.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2032. Delightful for its youthful fragrance, with the structure to develop more earthy complexity over time.