The 2006 Pinot Noir was tasted in London with cranberry and raspberry leaf on the nose, just lacking some definition on the palate. For a long time, winemaker/consultant Matt Thomson had been searching for a suitable site in Marlborough to start his joint-venture with David Gleave MW and when he finally discovered a triangular-shaped hill to the west of Blenheim in 2000, the dream turned reality. The regular Pinot Noir comes from the flat section of the vineyard, Hatters Hill from an elevation that rises to 175m. Importer: Vintus Wines, Pleasantville, NY; tel. (914) 769-3000; fax (914) 769-7112

A bit of a letdown after the 2005, this lean, slightly astringent Pinot Noir offers tart cherry flavors touched with black tea leaves. Finishes on a pomegranate note.——J.C.(11/1/2007)—— 84