The 2007 Cornish Point Vineyard Pinot is imbued with a pure, red cherry and wild strawberry tinged nose with great clarity and lift. The palate is very well balanced, extremely well focused with good acidity, quite firm but fine tannins with a dry, almost reserved bergamot and cranberry-infused finish. Quite simply: crisp and delicious. I met proprietor Nigel Greening in London back in 2008 for a first peek at his new releases just before he moved permanently to New Zealand and then re-tasted some of the wines in Central Otago during the Pinot Noir Celebration and again at regional tastings. As expected, winemaker Blair Walter continues to produce a very Burgundian style of Pinot Noir that prioritizes elegance and finesse over power and concentration. Although their Pinot Noirs hog the limelight (deservedly so), their excellent Chardonnay and Rieslings should not be ignored. Importer: Wilson Daniels Ltd., St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661; fax (707) 963-8566.

From a relatively young vineyard (planted in 2000), this is a nicely complex effort, showing hints of rose pollen, cherries and herbal tea. It’s round in the mouth, yet virtually weightless, showing off a wonderfully silky texture that persists through the finish. Without any real track record, opt for drinking this one on the young side (now–2012).——J.C.(5/1/2009)—— 91