Review

Stony Block Pinot Noir 2013
 

www.winefront.com

All the Bellvale pinot noirs spend about 21 days on skins, and are matured in 15% “European” oak for 12 months; which presumably means a mix of French and Hungarian. They’re then given a year in bottle prior to release.

This shows similar power to the Quercus Vineyard release, at least up-front, but then turns sinewy through the finish. It's smoky and herbal and structured, with meat and black pepper establishing a proper foothold even as darker cherried, almost graphite-like flavours pour through. It needs both a couple more years in bottle and a good decant; interest and quality it has in spades.

Drink: 2017-2024
Rated: 93+ points
 

www.huonhooke.com

Rated: 4 stars - 90 points