Pale ruby in color, the 2009 Stables Reserve Pinot Noir presents an earthy perfume of red cherries and red currant over Mediterranean herbs and a whiff of game. Medium bodied with a medium level of chewy tannins and high acidity, it is just a little light on the flesh, finishing medium-long. Drink it now through 2014. The nearly unpronounceable Ngatawara winery has been in business for around 30 years, starting as a family enterprise stemming from Alwyn Corban’s grandfather. It remains a family business today, albeit with some clearly defined label and brand extensions: Ngatawara Alwyn, Ngatawara Stables, Glazebrook and the new Farmgate, the latter two as stand-alone brands with their own separate reviews. “Having a process of label selection ensures best grapes in the top wines,” Alwyn commented during my visit this year. Production is around 40% Red / 60% white with the real strengths here being the Chardonnay, Syrah and Merlot (blend).Importer: Frederick Wildman and Sons, NY, NY; www.frederickwildman.com