(New Zealand) Tight, restrained nose Palate quite dry, chalky and tight. Not too sweet but more mineral than fruity. Clean finish.

This winery hasn’t fared all that well in recent vintages, but hopefully the 2007 represents a step in the right direction. The overly pungent, grassy notes have been replaced by riper, more balanced fruit that calls to mind honey, melon and fig yet finishes dry and minerally. A bit tarry and rubbery when first opened, so a quick decant is recommended.——J.C.(5/1/2008)—— 88