Those of you who are familiar with Pinot Noir from Central Otago know that most of these wines are quite full-bodied with significant fruit weight, reflecting the many sunshine hours of the region, and despite it being the most southern wine region in the world. Felton Road wines would be the most sophisticated and consistent of this style. Rippon wines could not be more different. Felton Road and Rippon are like chalk and cheese as the saying goes.
The story of Rippon always starts with the location of the vineyard on Lake Wanaka. Many regard it as the most beautiful vineyard in the world. The vineyard is now 35 years old, and the soil is predominantly schist in character.
I had an opportunity to taste five of their Pinot Noirs today. The 2019 Pinot Noir is fashioned in a light style, with strawberry and red cherry notes, and some savoury backbone. The wine is finely balanced (92/++ points). The same wine from 2012 is still remarkably fresh. The wine is more complex than the younger version, with cherry and mushroom flavours, and an earthy and smoky character vying for your attention (93/++ points).
The 2019 Rippon Pinot Noir 'Emma's Block' comes from a block down by the lake facing eastward. It has slightly more intensity than the Estate Pinot Noir, but it is still quite a light wine. It is elegant, with silky tannins and delivers this ethereal feel, only Pinot Noir can. I enjoyed this wine a lot (95+++ points).
The brother if you like, is the 2019 'Tinkers Field'. It comes from a block next door, and facing north. The main difference to the previous wine is the angel of this block, therefore the different aspect. Black cherry, herbs and spices form this wine. It is darker and more intense, quite precise, but not as delicate as the 'Emma's Block' (94/++ points).
A special release is the 2019 Lolo's Block from the top part of the vineyard. It celebrates the 70th birthday of the Mother. This is a fruitier wine with red cherry flavours. It is a bit forward on the palate (92/+ points).
Overall, there is a clear style to these wines. They require contemplation and should not be overwhelmed by hearty food.
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