2015 MT. BEAUTIFUL 10 BARREL NEW ZEALAND PINOT NOIR For many of the same reasons New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is so revered, their Pinot Noirs are gaining more momentum every year... Their Sauvignon Blancs have bright acidity and laser like clarity, which you will also find in their Pinot Noirs. The New World styled fruit, wild complexity, and superb focus makes Mt. Beautiful's 2015 10 Barrels Pinot Noir one of the best that I've tasted in years. 2015 marks the inaugural release of their 10 Barrels Pinot, and with a mere 229 cases produced, there is very little of this available in the US... Our panel was floored by the vivid detail, spiraling depth and intriguing meaty undertones of this special cuvée. At under forty dollars, the quality is truly palpable. In New Zealand, Pinot Noir reigns supreme and is their most widely planted varietal ahead of Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot. The area's cool climate and complex soils produce charming Pinots with seductive fruit, profound complexity and intense aromas. The Wine Spectator describes the 2015 vintage in New Zealand as producing "excellent quality and concentration." If you haven't experienced a Pinot Noir from a top New Zealand producer, here's a chance to try one of the best... Winery Notes: "Our first ever Barrel Select Pinot Noir begins with sophisticated floral fragrances of violets and blackberries, underpinned by subtle power and savory bacon-like aromas. On the palate this elegant wine reveals a veiled depth of intense bramble-like fruit, earthiness and subtle chalky tannins that run right through the mouth. The wine finishes with an echo of that toasty crisp bacon fat, and with a clarity of fruit and good persistent flavor."