The 2020 Aroha Pinot Noir leads with roasted cherry, pink peppercorns, Sichuan peppercorns and pomegranate molasses on the nose. In the mouth, the wine is taut and fine, with a silky flow of flavor that trickles through the fine tannic structure. All things are in place. It is both svelte and harmonious, powerful and long, and it's exciting drinking; the 70% whole bunch brings a swathe of exotic spice to the show and sits within the fruit and experience as a whole. This has a long future ahead, make no mistake. 13.8% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

Pure strawberry and redcurrant fruit on the nose with a hint of wood spice, but an equally floral character and tone of green peppercorn. Airy and polished on the palate, the purity of fruit shines through with positively vibrant acidity. Red-fruit-led, the recent vintages at Craggy Range are much less sweet, dense and powerful than in the past. The results so far are promising. (TP)