This Pinot Noir has been waiting to be uncorked ever since our trip to Napa Valley. So, tonight in honour of a certain rugby player going off to university, we cracked it to enjoy with pistachio encrusted salmon and a blend of cous cous, garbanzo, red quinoa and orzo.

Translucent ruby with even legs and a nose with cherry, cedar, red plum and baking spice, it exudes a stunning aroma.

The palate is dry with lightly dusty tannins and a slender body showing more cherry, red plum, nutmeg, clove, cedar fronds and forest leaves.  The finish is medium.

A WSET Good wine, it opened up over the course of the evening.  I’d been hoping for a longer finish, but it was a classic pairing with the salmon.