West Brook Waimauku Pinot Noir 2010 $28

I was lucky enough to be given this a a sample bottle by winemaker Anthony Ivicevich of West Brook (a boutique sized Kumeu winery, 35 minutes from Auckland City).  Just released - this is a brand new red and would obviously benefit from lying down in a darkened room for a wee while (as you do).

"You'll taste a wine that's been grown in salty mineral soil," Anthony advised me.   He wasn't kidding.  The 2008 Waimauku Pinot Noir gained a gold medal - this one is quite different.
Colour - garnet red and almost opaque.
Aromas - where the 2008 was savoury and gamey, this wine has an amazing mineral nose dominated by aromas of sea salt.  Under that, there are layers of ripe black cherry and raspberry, with a hint of floral.
Palate - minerals, black cherry, vegemite, cassis, red berries.  The tannins are still quite grippy - these will soften out and make the wine last longer.

Verdict: one to watch. Put it away for three years at least.

Phil is a published author and wine writer who runs FAB wine tours around Auckland