A review of the latest choice wines on the market
Mahi Pinot Noir 2006, Marlborough, 14%, €23.95Brian Bicknell made one of Marlborough's finest Pinots at Seresin Estate for a number of years. Since switching to Mahi, he has continued this winning streak. This is one of the Marlborough Pinots that really does push all buttons.
Relatively big, with lush dark fruits, some nicely judged oak, and plenty of length too. For the quality, the price is more than fair. Big enough to take on most red meats, but ham or gammon would do very nicely.
Stockists: Fallon & Byrne, Exchequer St, Dublin; Power & Smullen, Lucan, Co Dublin; White & Aherne, Dundalk; Quintessential Wines, Drogheda.
Waipara Springs Premo Pinot Noir 2006, Waipara, 14%, €21.95Waipara is one of a number of regions pushing for greater recognition for its Pinots. Waipara Springs make some very good examples, including the Premo. This has some smoky oak, but it is the depth of pure liquorice and morello cherry fruits that won me over. Try it with stir-fried chicken with red peppers.
Stockists: Redmond’s, Ranelagh; Donnybrook Fair; 64 Wine, Glasthule; Thomas’s, Foxrock; D-Six; The Corkscrew, Chatham St; Holland’s, Bray; Sweeney’s, Glasnevin; Lilac Wines, Fairview; The Wine Centre, Kilkenny; Masters Wine Warehouse, Waterford; Thomas Woodberry’s, Galway; Ferguson Fine Wines, Clifden; Curious Wines, Bandon; Karwig Wines, Carrigaline.
Ata Rangi Pinot Noir 2006, Martinborogh, 13.5%, €49.99The original of the species. Ten years ago, this was pretty much the only decent Pinot produced in New Zealand. Ata Rangi still ranks amongst the very best. The 2006 is delicate, but has lovely rich fruit, with a very attractive earthiness. Clearly not a cheap wine, but it competes with most Burgundy at the same price level. The 2007, which will be €55, is even better. Try it with a grilled breast of wild duck.
Stockists: O’Briens, World Wide Wines, Waterford and The Silver Granite, Palmerstown, Co Dublin.
Felton Road Pinot Noir 2007, Central Otago, 14%, €45Fantastic pure dark cherry and plum fruits, with a spicy edge, nicely judged acidity, and very goo length. A seriously good wine, and a perfect example of just how good Central Otago Pinot can be. Seared Salmon or tuna with a peppery crust.
Stockists: Listons, Camden Street, Dublin; World Wide Wines, Waterford; On The Grapevine, Dalkey and Booterstown, Co Dublin; Cabot & Co, Westport; The Wine Room, One
Pery Square, Limerick; Mount Gable Gifts, Clonbur.