The 2021 Dicey The Inlet Pinot Noir is a single-vineyard Central Otago Pinot Noir from the The Inlet Vineyard in Bannockburn, planted on ancient river terrace soils of loess over deep clay gravels. The wine is crafted from a blend of Clone 6, 777 and 115, with 7.5% whole bunches, fermented with indigenous yeasts and matured for 14 months in seasoned French oak barrels. Bottled unfined after natural malolactic fermentation, it reflects the vineyard's depth and distinctive sense of place. The bouquet is intense and complex, revealing aromas of black cherry, dark cherry and violet, complemented by notes of star anise, black tea, mushroom, cocoa and subtle baking spice.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with a dense yet silky texture, vibrant natural acidity and finely grained tannins. Layers of dark cherry, wild raspberry and blackberry are balanced by savoury herbs, earthy complexity and gentle oak spice, leading to a long, refined and persistent finish. The warm 2021 growing season produced concentrated, disease-free fruit, while the restrained use of whole bunches and seasoned oak preserves purity, structure and elegance. This is a poised, age-worthy Pinot Noir that combines power with remarkable finesse.
Ben's Recommendation: At Wine More Cellars, this is an exceptional choice for customers seeking a serious, cellar-worthy Central Otago Pinot Noir with concentration, elegance and outstanding vineyard character. Pair it with roast duck, venison, herb-crusted lamb, wild mushroom risotto or aged Gruyère. While rewarding after a gentle decant today, this wine will continue to evolve beautifully over the next 15–20 years, gaining further savoury complexity and refinement with time in the cellar.
