If the current Moss Wood Chardy is the best for many years, fair to say that this latest Pinot comes pretty close as well. A tiny crop, their lowest ever yield, seems to have been balanced by the quality on offer. Handpicked, destemmed, delivered to small, open fermenters with a variety of yeasts added, hand-plunging thrice daily. 16 days on skins and then a further 19 months maturation in French oak barrels, 23% new.

A lovely bright crimson colour. Delightful aromas with red fruits, notably cherries to the fore. Hints of vanillin oak but well integrated. Spices, animal skins and delicatessen notes. This is a mid-weight style, impressively balanced, seamless in structure and with good length. Good flick of acidity throughout. Lovely cherry notes emerged more along the palate. Should drink beautifully for the next four to six years, though well cellared bottles will last much longer. As mentioned, this is one of the best Pinots from Moss Wood in ages.

October, 2022