2020 Tolpuddle Pinot Noir
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2020 Pinot Noir is simply gorgeous. This is a beautiful wine. It's fine-boned and spicy, with sandalwood and myrrh, star anise and brine, layers of Szechuan peppercorns and pomegranate essence. Black cherry kirsch, licorice, a hint of arnica, raspberry seed and a curve of phenolics flow across the palate. What a beauty. Balanced, silky and flowing, it's long and structured.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
50% whole-bunch fermentation. Much richer mix of clones. Blueish, quite dark crimson. Intense, ripe nose with a nice saline note. Very juicy and appetising. Fine boned and not nearly ready. Great mix of sweet, sour and salt! (JR)
Coal River Valley. Ninth release. Planted 1988. Small crop from a cool harvest with higher than normal acidity. Hand-picked, 30 – 50% whole-bunch inclusion. Matured for 10 months in one-third new French oak barrels. Mixed clones: MV6, some Dijon clones. Just planted 777 and Abel. Just released. Firm, mid garnet. Low yields and slight mushroom aromas. Crunchy finish. Lively with a distinctively dry finish. Positively kicks up its heels! (JR)
Mid ruby. Some violets and definite vitality rather than just sweetness or gaminess. Still quite youthful and tight. Even a bit skinny at this stage! (JR)