Bannockburn Pinot Noir, Felton Road 2022

The 2022 Bannockburn Pinot Noir is a blend of the four vineyards: Cornish Point, MacMuir, Block 3 and Block 5. It leads with violets, cherry blossom, pomegranate pearls, star anise and cracked fennel seeds. In the mouth, the wine is supple and spicy, with lashings of fruit flavor and a balancing splay of tannins through the mid-palate and finish. Nicely handled wine, satisfying and supple. 14% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

The 2022 Bannockburn is absolutely delicious right out of the gate, and will give real drinking pleasure for the mid-term. Nigel Greening says 2022 reminds him of 2014, which is one of his favourite vintages. Bright ruby in the glass, the nose is enticing with sweet raspberry and wild strawberry interlaced with hints of cinnamon and dried herbs. The palate is spherical on entry, the tannins melting into waves of delicious red fruit and bright acidity. There is a herbal accent, pointing to whole-bunch, but it is subtle and well integrated, together with the hints of wood spice. Another resounding success that can be enjoyed now and for a decade or more.