"Since its debut in 2003, this has been one of New Zealand’s top Pinot Noir’s, combining power, structure and complexity. Smoky and richly peppery at first, it turns more floral with aeration, and while it’s big in the mouth, it’s also silky in texture. The black cherry, plum, vanilla and spice flavors fan out on the long, layered finish. Drink now – 2015." 93 Points, Wine Enthusiast Magazine on November 1, 2007

"Ruby, some carmine and velvet, a good colour for Martinborough.  Bouquet has a clear pennyroyal aromatic,  which I'm starting to think must reflect a subliminal eucalyptus component.  Additionally,  there is a great floral and spicy lift with almost a black pepper overtone.  On palate all these factors come together in a deliciously rich,  slightly buttery (+ve) mouthfeel,  as if the wine has lees enrichment / batonnage.  The black pepper note on bouquet continues,  and while it could be pinot noir in an aromatic sense,  it is also reminiscent of syrah in a floral Cote Rotie styling.  A bit confusing therefore,  different from the '03 Kupe,  but this is going to be attractive wine,  which should cellar 5 – 12 years.  GK 01/07"  4 Stars, Geoff Kelly Wine Reviews, www.geoffkellywinereviews.co.nz.

"Good deep red-ruby. Dark berries, flowers and peppery spices on the nose, along with a hint of high-toned, resiny oak. Sweet, juicy and vibrant in the mouth, with strong dark berry flavors complicated by mint and clove and sharpened by terrific acid cut. Finishes long, with a peppery suggestion of berry skin. This very young and promising wine grew sweeter as it opened in the glass. 89(+?) points." Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Sep/Oct 07