Dog Point Pinot Noir 2021

Lovely layers of lucid aromas are on show from first sniff: black cherry and red berry cordial, cocktail bitters-like herbs and spices and a dark chocolate nuance. There's a distinctive kitten's tongue texture to the tannins that adds structure to the plush fruit. While still quite primary and young, there's lovely concentration and harmony here that makes this a solid cellaring choice (until around 2030) or a food-friendly drop now with some aeration.

Lush and juicy, with notes of cherry preserves, blood orange and fresh raspberry. Accents of lavender and violet linger in the background, with hints of clove, malty Assam black tea and tomato leaf on the finish. Drink now. 3,000 cases made, 600 cases imported.

The 2021 Pinot Noir from Dog Point is poised with a savory and herbal flourish. There's no denying that the Marlborough natural red, sweet fruit is abundant, but cool nights and increasingly sensitive winemaking allow depth of flavor and layering. Wild green, woody herbs, including fennel and a bright line of freshness, come from one-third whole bunch fermentation, but that does not bring any furriness nor tannic dryness. Over the years, a gradual reduction in oak influence (lightening of toast) has also brought greater harmony and togetherness.