A delightful Pinot Noir from the Marlborough region in New Zealand.  The Kiwi’s are on the hunt to produce world-class wines and have given Sauvignon Blanc a real boost.  Their next major foray in the varietal wars is Pinot Noir.  This example, whilst moderately priced, ensures good QPR (Quality Price Ratio).  Unfortunately, it was drunk after some heftier wines and did not show as well as it could have.  It retains typical Pinot charachter and is very smooth.  The word sublime comes to mind, but that’s pushing it.  The tannins are very shadowy and in the background, just what you want from PN, but are there to help the wine age.  I would give it another 3-4 years and enjoy it with lighter fare, perhaps roast chicken, or ham.  My opinion, 3.5 stars and a respectable 86 points, if I were a judge.