While there is little or no difference in hue or clarity, and the alcohol is lower, this wine has the depth and restrained complexity the '11 standard pinot doesn't achieve to the same degree; there are still savoury elements, but the varietal fruit carries the day.

Pale ruby with a touch of purple, the 2011 Single Block CV90 Pinot Noir offers a nose led by earthy and savory notes over an aromatic core of fertile loam, tree bark and iron ore with a fragrant undercurrent of red berries, lavender and Sichuan pepper. Light to medium-bodied, the acid seems to stand out at this youthful stage and slightly overpowers the delicate fruit and silky tannins before finishing a little tart. My score is conservative and it may come into line with a bit of bottle age. 90+ - LPB