Woodchester Valley Pinot Noir

From the winery:

Gloriously deep ruby colour with intense violet highlights. On opening the first impression is of a lean, taut enigma of a wine; a coiled spring; a tightly closed bloom about to open; giving little but promising great rewards. 

After a few minutes in the glass this impression is confirmed - from behind the initially reticent white pepper, blackcurrant leaf, redcurrant and mineral aromas emerge enticing notes of rose petals, cassis and morello cherry. The palate, initially so linear and focussed - all graphite, cedar and tart, crunchy berries - slowly and majestically unfurls into something profound. Cedar and graphite slip aside to reveal smooth, black coffee depths with a dusting of five spice; the cherry and cassis take centre stage as the palate turns silkier and more deliciously supple - and the finish is long with lingering notes of cherry and spice. This is a seriously fine Pinot Noir and easily challenges its famous cousins on the Cote de Nuits. At two years old it is still very young - but utterly delicious with some gentle decanting - and at its peak after 2-3 hours. Drink now - but if you can leave a few bottles for five years or more you'll be richly rewarded.