I have to admit that while I’ve tasted a lot of pinot noir, I haven’t tasted much from New Zealand. It’s not that I have anything against the region, I just haven’t come across a lot of NZ pinot noir at tastings I’ve attended. And it’s unfortunate that I haven’t had much, as New Zealand is known to create some intriguing wines from this grape.
There are numerous variations in climate and soils throughout New Zealand, which result in varying characteristics in the pinot noir produced there. Some of the most highly acclaimed come from the Martinborough region, where loam over gravel soils produce pinot noir with concentrated plum flavors.
But this Dashwood pinot noir comes from the Marlborough region, known for producing fruit-filled pinot noir with loads of cherry and plum flavors. The cool conditions in this area are perfect for pinot noir.
This is a nice, light colored pinot noir with intense aromatics. It’s a little bit spicy on the nose with plenty of cherry and raspberry aromas complementing that spice. There’s a hint of grilled meat and leather on the nose too. Soft cherry flavors make up the bulk of the palate, and while it’s relatively simple it’s also very enjoyable. There is a spice note that hits the mid palate and adds some interest. The acidity is nearly perfect. The finish brings a cranberry flavor, which dissapates quickly making for a relatively short finish. Nonetheless, I’m not disappointed in this wine. For the price, this is a very nice—and recommended—pinot noir.
Wine: Dashwood
Variety: Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2008
Alcohol: 13%
Rating: 86
Price: $13.99
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Disclosure: This wine was received as a sample.