Pinot Noir Snake's Tongue, Pyramid Valley Vineyards 2022

The 2022 Snake's Tongue Pinot Noir won't be released until October 2024, so this is definitely a pre-release tasting, but it’s a wonderful insight into what is to come. There’s petrichor, asphalt, graphite, black tea, satsuma plum, cherry flesh and red apple skins. This has the tannic density of the 2021, but there is far more restraint and delicacy in the fruit profile. I love the way this performs in the mouth, with dried ginger, blood orange, red pepper, a hint of sesame seed and orchard fruit. A superb wine of presence and delicacy. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

From a lieu-dit within their Manata vineyard in Lowburn. Botanicals collection. Cask sample.
Less deep than the 2021 because of the vintage. Very fragrant. Herbal and lively and transparent. Really beautifully balanced. Even delicate! (JR)