Varietal: Pinot Noir

Vintage: 2008

Region: Marlborough, New Zealand

Price: ~ $22

What does the above link have to do with wine? Nothing, just move on...

My first New Zealand wine of the night and it did not disappoint. It won Wine Access' silver medal "Value Wine" award for 2009. Additionally, and in comparison to the Rolling Stones rep, the Spy Valley rep was informative and eager to teach us more about the region.

The bouquet on this pinot was of fresh blueberries and for the first time of the night—liquorice, all embraced by a crisp ruby red colour appearance. On the palate it had a surprising spice which gave way to stone and mineral accents which I learned was characteristic of the Marlborough area. The surprise spice kept me coming back and the medium body gradually unfolded it's complexity. It doesn't linger; it finishes quickly and cleanly. An interesting and excellent value wine!

Okay, peace ooouuut!