Nautilus 2019 Southern Valleys Pinot Noir 750ml

The 2019 Southern Valleys Pinot Noir is concentrated and densely packed with flavor and tannin. The Southern Valleys are typified not only by the undulating hillside upon which the vineyards are perched but most notably by the soils, which are heavier and more loess dominant than the rocky river bed of the Wairau Valley. This gives the density and intensity that we see here, with hints of game and blood, strawberry, sour red cherry, some dried herbs and a hint of caper brine, plus cinnamon spice, to boot. Classy wine. These Southern Valleys Pinot are exciting because they achieve admirable tannin density and flavor ripeness at relatively low alcohol, lending them finesse and detail. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

Score: 91 points -- Erin Larkin, The Wine Advocate, 2023