2016 Felton Road Pinot Noir Block 3
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Tasting notes
The 2016 Block 3 Pinot Noir has more intensity and guts than the 2015, presenting an enticing mélange of red and black fruit laced with Earl Grey, bergamot and a touch of smoke. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, crisp acidity, real tension and drive and a sense of energy on the finish that leaves the mouth crying out for more. It sits comfortably between Old and New World in style and it will age effortlessly over the next 15 years or so. (NM)
Critic scores
Average Score
Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Deeper, denser and meatier than the other 2016s, the 2016 Block 3 Pinot Noir underwent similar élevage of 13 months in 35% new French oak. Plum, cola and earthy notes come across as slightly chunkier and more angular than the other wines, but the higher tannin levels should also support longer aging. This medium to full-bodied Pinot Noir is delicious now, but it should be even better in another 5 years' time.
Bannockburn. 25% whole bunch, 40% new oak. Lightish crimson. Much prettier than the 2015 with a floral note alongside lots of red fruit. Scented on the palate too, the tannins seem more subtle and perfectly frame the fruit. Super-fine texture and very persistent. (JH)
This moves up a gear in terms of complexity and swagger. Always a confident wine in the mix of Felton Road creations, it has reassuring cherry fruit depth on the nose as well as fragrant and ethereal perfumed character with citrus rind and cocoa powder which lift it impressively. The palate has an array of strawberry, raspberry, boysenberry and red cherry fruits cast in a web of ripe, fine tannins that twists tight into the finish. Iron fist, velvet glove effect.