Sometimes it all comes down to the barrels … this double barrel selection was aged 16 months in 50% new French oak. It has a certain je-ne-sais-quoi about it that winemaker Derek Barnett and his team decided needed not only further investigation (when it was in barrel) but also decided on an independent bottling. Black cherry, spice, beet root, cassis all make an appearance on both the nose and palate … but what stands out here is the peppery-spiciness and the loads of great red fruit which seem to meld together for a full Pinot experience. Price: $60.00 – Rating: ****+