2020 Colere Ashmore Pinot Noir

"A cracking pinot noir from minimal-intervention winemaker Julian Richards. This is from the Ashmore Vineyard in Marlborough’s Southern Valley, but it goes beyond the straightforward fruitiness often associated with Marlbrough pinots helped, not least, by 100% whole bunch fermentation which really beefs up the aromatics of cherry and dark plum. There’s also a great structure and balance that is both chewy and juicy. It’s a strange sensation to have but tasting this wine felt that the wine itself was unashamed of what it was. Vibrant and a real pleasure to taste."

"This has an expressive, earthy-toned bouquet with aromas of clay and ash, melded with black raspberry, cherry, cranberry, floral, herbs and subtle spice. Medium-full-bodied aromas of red cherry, black raspberry and cranberry are energetic and enriched by thyme, clove, cinnamon, black pepper, and clayey earth. The fruit has concentration and good energy, and flavours unveil and evolve on the palate. Dusty tannins carry earth and herbs details to a savoury, broody closing. This Pinot Noir possesses captivating and expressively earthy, savoury elements, flows with good energy and intensity, exhibiting the potential of a great Southern Valleys Pinot Noir. Match with roasted pigeon and lamb over the next 6+ years. Fermented with 100% whole bunch, aged for 15 months on fine lees in a mixture of 30% older oak puncheons and 70% stainless steel. 13.5% alc. Bottled unfined, unfiltered. Organic certified. Vegan friendly. 19/20 pts (95 pts)." Drink 2024 - 2030+

“Complex and new, aromas of red cherry and autumn leaves, barrel spices of dusty clove and vanilla, some wood smoke, plum, cranberry and pinosity. Refreshing, complex, textured and dry on the palate. Fruit and berry flavours mirror the bouquet with a fine chalky texture from tannins, medium+ acidty and an overall fine complexity. This is a specific style of Pinot Noir with an earthy ‘old world’ feel. Well made with best drinking from 2023 through 2029.”