2008 Ostler Pinot Noir, Caroline's, Waitaki River, Otago (Stelvin)

This is probably the finest Ostler pinot we have received to date as the vines are becoming well established in their breathtaking vineyard site on the limestone escarpment overlooking the braided Waitaki river. It is once again a superbly elegant pinot in a red fruit register, not as densely powerful as some central Otago wines, but seamlessly crafted and remarkably persistent.
(Jasper Morris MW, BBR Buyer)

Lovely soft nose, with more earthy open-textured raspberry and red cherry fruits. There's a big orangy acidity here, a real tang of fresh, citrusy acidity as it hits the palate, with tight structure of the tannins. Again that chicory and liquorice bittersweet quality is lovely and has a tight, structured palate that will soften over coming years. Less bold and deeply-fruited than the 2009, but has energy and edge.
(Tom Cannavan - winepages.com - Aug 2011)