2017 Rippon Tinker's Field Pinot Noir

Brand	Rippon Vineyard
Region	Central Otago
Varietal	Pinot Noir
Size	750ml
Alcohol %	12.5%
Vintage	2017
Country	New Zealand

Rolfe Mills, father of current winemaker Nick, was the first man to plant vines on the hallowed piece of schist known as Rippon in the late 1970s. He was known to his friends as Tink - and this wine is a tribute to his vision. This small vineyard within a vineyard has gradually distinguished itself over time as being the Rippon Grand Cru, home to the oldest vines on the property. Made only in tiny quantities each year, it is considered amongst NZ's top Pinot Noirs and a staple in the cellars of serious collectors, with 20 years life in front of it easily.

Deeply aromatic, but still youthful and tight, with the promise of much more with time. Cherries, sweet herbs, spices and mineral nuances abound.

A seriously profound Pinot Noir - the thing that impresses most is the subtle power - layers upon layers of intense fruits and spices, with the underlying schist tannin of Rippon binding the whole thing together. This will repay its ticket price many times over if carefully cellared through to 2030+.