The 2021 Pinot Noir from Dog Point is poised with a savory and herbal flourish. There`s no denying that the Marlborough natural red, sweet fruit is abundant, but cool nights and increasingly sensitive winemaking allow depth of flavor and layering. Wild green, woody herbs, including fennel and a bright line of freshness, come from one-third whole bunch fermentation, but that does not bring any furriness nor tannic dryness. Over the years, a gradual reduction in oak influence (lightening of toast) has also brought greater harmony and togetherness. 92 points

Full screwcapped bottle 1,300 g on the button. Vines, a mix of clones, are an average of 21 years old and are farmed `according to organic principles`. 30% whole bunches. Spontaneous fermentation lasted three weeks. Aged for 18 months in barrels (30% new). Bright, mid garnet. Funky, savoury Pinot aromas and flavours that finish bone dry. No obvious sweetness here but a wine made to develop greater interest and last in bottle. Some violet aromas and even a slight butteriness of texture. Really interesting wine that has not yet reached its full potential. Grainy, peppery finish adds interest. Long.
Bright garnet. Quite a subtle (dry!) nose of restrained cranberry fruit and, like the Chardonnay 2021, bone dry. Survived well in an open bottle which suggests a long life. Far from simplistic but it`s so dry that it demands food. Not a casual wine bar sipper... Really refreshing and long. Well done! Positively savoury (very unlike many a Marlborough Pinot) and a wine that should be of interest to burgundy lovers. 17 points