May 15, 2010

****1/2 drink now
Viña Cono Sur ‘Vision’ Pinot Noir 2008
DO Colchagua Valley $16.95 (689992) 14.0% alcohol
Primarily single-vineyard sourced, the 41-year-old Pinot Noir vines are amongst the oldest in Chile. The meagre hand-harvested yield was limited—4 tonne per ha. Blackberry fruit, dried currant and savoury herb aromas segue a persistent offering of complex flavours—more blackberry, spice-infused dark succulent cherry, espresso roast and wisps of oak. Mid weight, generously textured and perfectly balanced, the lingering finish dishes out lip-smacking fruit flavour within a ripe supple tannin structure—delectable! (Vic Harradine)