Blank Canvas Upton Downs Vineyard Pinot Noir 2023 (750ml)

‘Elegant, gentle wine with surprising power and flavours suggesting raspberry sherbet dab, red rose petal that linger tantalisingly on a lengthy finish. Charming pinot noir that should put a smile on every pinot noir lover’s face.’

‘Bright ruby. A distinctive nose of tomato stalk, flint smoke and pomace suggesting whole bunch and/or site expression. With persistent coaxing, measured vanilla and cinnamon oak rises to the fore, followed by sweet roses, bramble and wild raspberry. The light-weight palate is equally restrained, tightly framed by sleek, coffee-ish tannins and driving acidity which facilitates incredible length, eventually revealing a crystalline heart of red, floral fruit. Despite its reticence and deceptively quiet expression, this is undeniably classy, elegant and intricate. It just needs time to unfold.’

‘This is very fragrant and spicy, showing clove, ripe-cherry, vanilla and roasted spice aromas, followed by a medium-bodied, flavorful palate, with ripe and fine tannins supporting the spicy fruit. Excellent length and concentration. From the Upper Awatere Valley. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

‘The 2023 Pinot Noir Uptown Downs is an herbal funfair in a glass. This aromatic, richly fruited, medium-bodied red has a succulent texture and delectably mellow tannins. Fine cherry notes and a tea leaf fragrance linger long.’