Pinot noir 2014 (Michel Rolland Mariflor)

Cellar for up to 10 years. Decanting is optional, up to an hour before serving. Mariflor is a stunning range of wines produced by Bodega Rolland, the Argentinian venture from legendary wine consultant Michel Rolland. Mariflor wines are all sourced from a 247-acre vineyard, found in Uco Valley at the foot of the Andes Mountains. The vineyard is situated at an elevation of 1100 metres above sea level and is managed personally żeby Michel and his wife Dany, who is also a renowned wine-maker. Most of the land is given over to bold red wine grapes, but a small portion is dedicated to more delicate varietals, such as Pinot Noir, which is an absolute must-try from this label. While Pinot Noir struggles in most environments, the harsh, pest-resistant soil of Uco Valley pushes the grape to its magnificent limit. It has a subtle nose, with understated dark and red fruits, hints of vanilla, liquorice and a belt of oakiness that verges on tar. On the palate, the wine’s elegance becomes more obvious, as do flavours of ripe raspberry, plum and wild hedgerow. It has a beautiful balance between alcohol and acidity, which gives it a brilliant liveliness and a lingering finish. Pair it with a savoury roasted bird, a salmon dish, or a mushroom risotto.