2019 Taitira 'King Tide' Reserve Marlborough Pinot Noir

$50 at winery cellar door

· 94pts Sam Kim "It's splendidly complex and engaging on the nose, showing sweet berry, dried herb, mushroom and roasted nut aromas, followed by a silky-smooth palate that's plump and soothing. Wonderfully framed by velvety texture and finely infused tannins, finishing impressively long and savoury. At its best: now to 2029. $50.00. Nov 2023."

· 92pts QWine Reviews "One thing the Kiwis do is release their Pinots with some bottle age. I wish there was more of that here in Australia. This Tai Tira King Tide Pinot Noir from Marlborough is a great drink with a little more depth than those bright styles we often see.  Tai is a Maori word for sea and Tira means traveller. Nice touch.  It saw French oak for 11 months (15% new). Scents of smoke, cured meat and dried red petals set the scene. Dense and rich, plums, dark cherries and flashes of blackberry lay a solid platform. Tight with fine pepper scattered about, a lengthy and softly spiced finish wraps things up nicely. I'd be happy to have a glass or two - it is very good.  Drink to eight years.  92/100  Region: Marlborough  RRP: $50."

· 92pts Ray Jordan "This stylish and expressive pinot comes from the Awatere Valley in Marlborough. Appealing savoury red berry notes with a spicy lift on the nose. Medium bodied palate with a seamless oak and fine tannin integration. Red berry and raspberry flavours build with a little savoury and mushroom complexity. It's plush and velvety smooth. Cellar: 7 years."