2009 Cornish Point Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
At 10 years of age, the 2009 shows only modest bricking. The wonderful bouquet is at that liminal point between primary and secondary aromas, offering scents of mulberry, hung game, wild fennel, sage and oregano. It evokes Provence more than Central Otago. The palate reminds me of a mature Chambolle-Musigny, meaty and bloody in character, generous and voluminous, with a sensual, slightly savory nuance. The 2009 is probably at its peak, although its freshness and substance suggest that well-cellared bottles will give another 10 years of drinking pleasure.
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Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
This was made before Felton Road's change of policy and decision to pick a bit earlier but it's tasting awfully well even at nine years old. Served fairly cool and full of interestingly evolved fruit. Nothing to do with Burgundy but beautifully balanced and refreshing without being at all skinny. Quite sweet and substantial with only the slightest hint of beetroot. Clean, lean finish. (JR)
Quite heady, liqueur-like nose. Lots of power and sweetness. Easy to like but not exactly subtle. (JR)
The 2009 Cornish Point Pinot Noir is looking particularly good this year. Deep ruby-purple colored, it displays aromas of black cherries, warm cranberries, moss, beets, cinnamon, anise and a whiff of Mediterranean herbs. Full bodied, crisp and spicy, there’s a medium-high level of fine tannins texturing the mouth and the finish is long, lending some minerality/iron ore notes. It needs another year or 2 to open-out, then it should drink nicely to 2017. Winemaker Blair Walter continues to work his magic with the recent releases from Central Otago’s most famous Estate. There’s not a wine less than excellent in the bunch, but these days it would be more of a story if there was. Importer: Wilson Daniels Ltd., St. Helena, CA; www.wilsondaniels.com