Dalrymple Single Site Pipers River Pinot Noir 2022

Smoky, ashy notes meld with earthy beetroot and stemmy spice in an alluring and interesting opening. There’s also plum and subtly sweet pops of raspberry leaf tea, but in the main this is earthy, full of dark spice and savouriness. Some chocolate and nutmeg notes emerge with air. Very compelling. The palate follows suit though with unexpected sapidity. Intense notes of beetroot, smoke, earth, ripe raspberry and plum burst through the mouth with assurance and power before being assertively constricted by fine-but-firm mocha-laced tannins and a big line of acid. Good long length here, defined by a mocha-bitterness and liquorice root in the mouth perfume. This is a dark, powerful and commanding wine that still needs time to soften. Time in the cellar will reward.