Howard Park Flint Rock Pinot Noir 2024

Hats off to Howard Park for producing a Pinot Noir of substance, finesse, and charm at such a modest price point. Bright red fruits lead the way – wild strawberry, Bing cherry, and raspberry coulis – before unfolding into notes of nutmeg, tilled earth, and red rose, the latter eventually taking centre stage. Beneath that lies a substratum of red liquorice and earthy beetroot, adding depth and interest, while air reveals a mineral finesse through the core. Altogether, it’s an aromatic profile that punches well above its weight. The palate has a good bite of intensity within a delicate Pinot frame. Dark cherry, cranberry skin, earth, raspberry, and nutmeg are wrapped in a sheath of fine but firm chalky tannins, drawing the wine to an impressively long finish. When it comes to quality for price, this is right up there.