Gibbston Valley Wines

Gold River Pinot Noir 2016 Central Otago

From the Gibbston Valley stables – Very fruity and varietal bouquet with aromas and flavours of raspberry and red cherry, soft brown spices from mild oak influences and light savoury complexity. Youthful structure with medium+ acidity and fresh vibrant tannins; light to moderate weight, dry finish. Plenty of pepp in this example; can be drunk now though best decanted or cellared. Ideal drinking from 2019 through 2026.

91 Points

Gibbston Valley ‘China Terrace’ Pinot Noir 2016 Central Otago

Immediately intriguing bouquet with a complex message of mineral, ripe cherry and raspberry led fruit, some red apple and dark rose moments; noticeable mix of new and older barrel use. On the palate – dry, ripe plump red berry fruit flavours plus cherry and some plum, a little pepper spice then oak spice and flavour; youthful tannin bite and acidity to match, a wine in development with some integration needed over the next few years. Decant for service or best from 2019 through 2027.

94 Points

Gibbston Valley ‘Le Maitre’ Pinot Noir 2016 Central Otago

No mistaking the style of Pinot here – toasty and warm with dark spices and plum, ripe dark cherry and spiced plum aromas; the clove and cinnamon edges of the oak and masculine earthy undertones are very inviting and showing the wines complexity. On the palate – ripe, fruity, plump. Oaky, dry finish and very engaging. Fine to moderate tannins with a dusty chalky texture; an equal level of acidity – off-set by the fruit and oak concentration. Baa\lanced, drinkable today; best from late 2018 through 2026.

94 Points