Made using some of the oldest Pinot Noir vines in Marlborough, this expressive and perfumed Marlborough Pinot is packed with red fruit, notes of spice and a smoky complexity. This really is a cracking NZ Pinot that perfectly exhibits Kevin Judd’s dedication to making fine wines - and putting his own stamp on them.

eRobertParker.com October, 2013 Pale to medium ruby-purple-colored, the 2011 Pinot Noir offers pronounced notes of red cherries, black raspberries and red currants with suggestions of underbrush, violets and cinnamon stick. Medium-bodied with plenty of mouth-filling red berry and earthy flavors, a medium level of fine-grained tannins and vibrant acid, it finishes with very good length and finesse. Drink it now to 2017+. ()

Pale to medium ruby-purple-colored, the 2011 Pinot Noir offers pronounced notes of red cherries, black raspberries and red currants with suggestions of underbrush, violets and cinnamon stick. Medium-bodied with plenty of mouth-filling red berry and earthy flavors, a medium level of fine-grained tannins and vibrant acid, it finishes with very good length and finesse. Drink it now to 2017+. Importer: Old Bridge Cellars, 703 Jefferson Street, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 258-9552

First impression is toasty, smoky oak, although it is not overdone. Peppery and sweet spice, too. Much more obviously NZ in style than the Seresin Leah Pinot tasted alongside. The oak is a little marked on the finish still but the fruit is attractive underneath. (JH)