Mt. Beautiful, North Canterbury (New Zealand) Pinot Noir 2015

 Since their founding, Mt. Beautiful has always focused on making high-quality Pinot Noir.  The 2015 vintage was the first time they have produced a reserve bottling, labeled 10 Barrels, presumably because they used their top 10 barrels for the blend.  It’s a wonderful Pinot Noir, showing both the fruity and savory side of that grape.  You are immediately drawn by the wine gorgeous aromatics of fresh fruits and earthy leafy notes, all of which follow on the palate.  The tannins are suave helping to impart a velvety texture.  It’s only a touch of heat in the finish, reflecting its 14 percent-stated alcohol, that detracts.