The 2021 The First Paddock Pinot Noir is earthy and leads with cigar box, lotus leaf, freshly cracked tobacco (not that I smoke, but I well remember the smell of a freshly opened bag of Champion Ruby). In the mouth, the red fruit tends to cascade off the shelf of spice and leaf. This is not the most plush or the most seductive of the Pinots here, but seduction can come in many forms ... the swirl of leaf and the flourish of dried spice has got me. 12.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Erin Larkin, Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Region:Ā Central Otago, New Zealand
Grape Varietal:Ā 100% Pinot Noir
Critic Rating: Robert Parker Wine Advocate 94+ Points
Suggested Drink Window: 2023 - 2036