Akitu ‘A2’ Central Otago Pinot Noir 2015 **** (4 stars)
Garnet-red colour with some depth, lighter on the edge with a touch of bricking. This has a fulsome and robust nose with good depth and concentration of savoury dark-red berry fruit entwined with dried herbs, undergrowth and game notes, and some whole bunch stalk elements. This shows secondary complexities unfolding with aeration. Medium-full bodied, the palate has fulsome and lively fruit flavours of savoury dark-red cherry and berry fruit with a layering of dried herbs, undergrowth and game notes. The mouthfeel is lively with brisk acidity and has underlying alcoholic power. The fruit is supported by light, grainy, tannin extraction and structure, lending robustness and grip. The wine carries to a savoury, textured finish. This is a fulsome and robust Pinot Noir with savoury secondary flavours of red fruits, dried herbs and undergrowth with plenty of grip. Match with mushroom dishes and game meat over the next 3-4 years. 61% Abel clone with 39% clone 5, the fruit fermented to 13.84% alc. with 31% whole bunches, the wine aged 10 months in 13% new French oak. 550 dozen made. 17.5/20 Dec 2017 RRP $39.90