2016 Aroha

Mainly Block 19, Abel clone at 1.6 x 1 m, with some Block 9, clone 115 also at 1.6 x 1 m. Harvested at 23.8 °Brix. 50% whole-bunch fermentation in open-top, stainless-steel tanks and French oak cuves. Nine months in 30% new French oak. TA 5.5 g/l, pH 3.61. NHB. Pale-mid ruby. Stem-herb and rose scent with a white-pepper edge. Clove oak spice. Rich red and black fruit. Sweet black-fruit entry with medium-full body. Spicy and peppery mid palate, with dark-chocolate oak. Bright not brisk acidity and a warmth to the finish. Fairly firm, quite polished tannins that still need a little time. Te Muna Pinot has typically thicker skins, so the colour depth and tannic structure would be typical, but this is quite a big style more from winemaking than from Te Muna regional typicality. (TJ)

While this wine used to include only the Abel Clone from Block 16, it now includes some Clone 115 for its red fruit and perfume. The 2016 Aroha Pinot Noir delivers a sexy combination of red raspberry and black cherry-cola fruit, outlined by dried spices and a seamless, silky texture. It's medium to full-bodied, with an expansive but elegant mid-palate and a focused, richly layered finish. Just lovely stuff.