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Basic Juice Review

Brancott Pinot Noir Reserve, 2002 ($20)

**** (4-Stars)

  • From Marlborough, New Zealand

  • Light ruby in color - fading to salmon/copper

  • Scents of ripe cherry, tomato plant, and earth

  • Concentrated flavors of cherry, dark chocolate, and just a little black licorice. A light-bodied wine with intense flavors. A long, pleasant finish

When New Zealand began cranking out Pinot Noir, one could often read a description along these lines:

"This Pinot is positively Burgundian in character"

I understand the urge to compare something to the original, gold standard. However, well-made wine should be able to stand on its own. And this Kiwi Pinot Noir is just dandy. Fine with food. But, this wine is one of those that yearns to go solo.