Displaying a medium ruby color, the 2008 Moutere Pinot Noir has black cherry and red currant aromas with an undercurrent of smoky bacon, underbrush, damp loam and bark plus a little anise. Medium bodied, this is an elegant, well structured style with a good backbone of high acid and medium level of very fine tannins. It has beguiling layers of cranberry, meat and mushroom flavors, finishing with very good persistence. Consider drinking this one 2012 to 2016+. Importer: The Country Vintner; www.countryvintner.com.au

Heavy on the cola, earth and loam notes, with mineral-tinged rhubarb, pomegranate and cranberry flavors that have a firm edge. Drink now. 300 cases made. -MW

One of few Kiwi Pinots typically worth cellaring, Neudorf’s 2008 Moutere bottling comes across as a bit oaky, with menthol and cedar notes forming a tight overlay to the cherry fruit. Tannins are silky yet firm, suggesting the wine will be at its best 2012–2018. ——J.C.(4/1/2011)—— 89