Pyramid Valley Calvert Vineyard Pinot Noir 2008

Now I had the pleasure of talking to Mike (the winemaker for Pyramid Valley) at some length about Pinot Noir, Burgundy etc. This guy striked me as being a very, very serious person about growing Pinot Noir. In my view he is head and shoulders above anyone else in this country when it comes to growing Pinot Noir. What I really like about this guy is his excellent understanding of what Pinot Noir and great Burgundy should be. Obviously he has tried and appreciated many top Burgundies. His Calvert vineyard situated in Bannockburn which is managed biodynamically. As always, hand picked, natural fermentation with one month Cuvaison and complete natural malolactic, extra lees contact in French barrels mostly used, bottled unfined and unfiltered. Beautiful, vibrant and luminous colour with floral notes especially lavender, violet and English rose. The palate speaks for itself, focused and fresh with lovely racy acidity. This is not a heavy weight; this is a thoroughbred, an athlete with nerve and definition. A perfect example of how truly good Pinot Noir should be, I would say with a little inspiration from Burgundy. Cellar for up to 5 years.