I don't know many sommeliers, but those I have met swear by the greatness of pinot noir. 'Ethereal' is a word thrown about. I think the word means 'finesse' but with a little more metaphysical spunk. I don't know if this is accurate. What I do know is that Burgundy is the cradle of the elusive pinot noir. It's also home to the most expensive agricultural land on earth. The colour of pinot is the first giveaway in a blind tasting. Light. Bricky. On the nose, you'll generally find red fruit, earth, barnyard, stewed rhubarb, light spice. In the mouth, minerals and tight acidity dominate. As a grape, pinot is temperamental, but when done well it is so exciting - so ethereal, if you'll allow the word - that producers all over the world have been tempted to try the grape out at least once. Pinot is a tough grow. New Zealand, with its cooler growing climate, has had some of the best results to date and now produces some of the finest pinots outside of Burgundy. Pisa Range Estate is at the top end. The winemaker's name is Rudi Bauer. He's renowned, speaks English with a Austrian and New Zealand hybrid accent and drops the occasional f-bomb. Observe.
