Loveblock Pinot Noir 2021

The 2021 Pinot Noir requires you to be patient. It's young and somewhat confrontational, begging for bottle age, and knowing the New Zealand market, it won't enjoy that luxury. Shame. The wine is like a powerful baby with its intensity, density and savory, brooding nature. There's huge concentration and power wrapped in its core, propelling the wine forward and giving it a sense of attack. The finish is dry and savory, with oak-derived smoke and spice most prominent on the long finish. Pair it with a solid piece of red meat or game and slow-cooked mushrooms if you drink it now. Better still, hold your horse; this is going to age well.

Cedar shavings, tree sap, bay leaf and other savory herbs and spices are at the fore on this distinctive Pinot. Underneath lurk ripe, red and black fruit and some smoky oak. The palate is tightly wound in chalky tannins. There's a good deal of drying, toasty barrel influence. But there's also lovely crisp acidity and densely packed fruit. Drink 2024-2030.