The Boneline 'Wai-iti' Pinot Noir 2018, Wairarapa

I tasted this wine on January 23rd - a pre-release tasting (from memory) at the vineyard and winery (great experience).

This sample came to my home and has rested for a few days first.

Complexity in the bouquet is immediate with aromas of limestone clay soils and a soft savoury core. Pinosity next with aromas of red currant and berries, cherry and red apple then wood spices of cedar and bacon and a whisper of vanilla. On the palate - textured and dry with an abundance of fine chalky tannins and medium alcohol, a core of fruit and soil flavours reflecting the bouquet - cherry and apple, a whisper of rhubarb then dried herb and barrel spices. A lovely wine, ready to enjoy from today and through 2024+.

93 points

Excellent

January 23rd notes:

It’s easy to miss the complexity in the bouquet - aromas of plum and cherry, strawberry and baking spices, stony mineral and completeness. On the palate - a complete wine - fresh, bright, youthful, tense, textured and fruity. Flavours mirror the nose accentuated with fine, firm chalky tannins, medium+ acidity and a velvet texture throughout. Well made and ready to enjoy from today and through 2026.

93 Points

Excellent