2007 Pinot Noir by Sleeping Dogs
by Haydn Adams | Beyond Napa Valley Blog

Retail Price: Unknown
Appellation: Central Otago, New Zealand
Where you can buy this wine: Station Imports
ALC: 13%
Haydn gives this wine: 89 pts

The first thing you’ll notice about this wine is that is a bit more on the sweeter end of Pinot world. Not big cherries hitting you in the face, not dirt either for that matter. What you will pick up is a bit of honey (yes, in a Pinot) and a bit of deeper purple-colored fruit, such as a blackberry. The nose is very well structured and the aromas almost seem to caress the senses.

The fruit-forwardness continues to show on the mid-palate. There is a still a little bit of honey lingering in this wine. Such a new and delightful twist for a Pinot to have. What is also beautiful about this wine is the very low tannins. For being a 2007, I’m a bit surprised but equally happy. I really don’t like the way young Pinots grip your mouth not allowing you to taste anything else but tannins. 

The best part about this wine is it’s alcohol content. I’m so happy to be drinking a wine that is hitting at 13%. I guess all of the big Zins from the past week added to my gripe over California’s over alcoholic wines. I want to enjoy a glass or two, not throw down a shot. This wine would be perfect for a summer time picnic. I’d give it a slight chill if taking outside. 

Once again, a beautiful showing from the Central Otago region, the hottest Pinot region anywhere in the world today.

—————————-
Haydn Adams is the author of the book, Wineries Beyond Napa Valley: Dry Creek and Alexander Valley, an insider’s tasting guide to the hidden gems region. He also contributes to the Beyond Napa Valley Wine Blog, writes for vinvillage.com, and can be found roaming the hills of Sonoma County looking for the next hidden gems. You can contact him at haydn@beyondnapavalley.com