Winery - Spy Valley
* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
Another inky-dark 2005 Marlborough Pinot, Spy Valley’s rendition is assertive and plummy, but perhaps lacking a little bit of perfume. Slightly creamy in texture without being particularly lush, it finishes long and clean.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
This medium-bodied, slightly herbal Pinot Noir would have scored higher had the finish been longer. That’s really the only knock against this otherwise silky, dark-fruited Pinot.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
Spy Valley’s upmarket Pinot Gris is vendange tardive in style, made in an old oak oval with plenty of residual sugar (39 g/l) and a rich, unctuous texture. Bold honey and melon notes are accented by hints of ginger and white pepper, leading to a mouthwatering finish. Drink now–2015.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
Made in a medium-sweet style with only 9% alcohol, this is an intensely flavored wine filled with green apple and lime. There’s a touch of petrol on the nose, and it reappears on the long, sweet-tart finish.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
Spy Valley’s 2007 Envoy Pinot Noir is an attractive wine, featuring an exterior of brown sugar, dry leaves and coffee and a fruit-filled cherry center. The only concern is the slightly drying finish and some slightly coarse, rustic tannins. If those resolve gracefully, this rating may look stingy in 3 years’ time.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
Spy Valley isn’t particularly known for its Chardonnays, but this is a toasty, creamy, lush example that should turn some heads. Melon, apple, citrus and pineapple fruit is all wrapped in a cushion of oak, making for a soft, easy-drinking wine. Drink it over the next year or so.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
Crisper and leaner than the current style in Marlborough, the tart berry fruit really shines in this offering from a winery named for a nearby satellite listening post. Finishes with tangy cranberry flavors and a touch of dusty tannin.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
Buoyed by assertive lychee and spice notes, this is a bold, aromatic wine made in an off-dry style. It’s full bodied on the palate, with a long, spice-driven finish. Drink over the next 6–9 months.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
This is a medium-dry Riesling with plenty of weight and richness, but also wonderfully perfumed aromatics of citrus blossom. Lime and green apple fruit carries the palate, and finishes long, with an almost tactile sense of minerality.
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