Two Pinots, one from Israel, one Fromm New Zealand

Fromm, Pinot Noir, Cuvée H, 2016
The nose conveys a lovely freshness of red and black cherries, that same freshness echoed on the palate, where it is framed by a gossamer of silky tannins. It's a very elegant and complex wine, one that displays the telltale exotic spices of Pinot at its best, as well as a floral character worthy of Chambolle-Musigny. Cuvée H is a blend of Fromm's vineyards and the quality of this star winery is eminent, as well as a precision worthy of Fromm's Swiss roots. (June 25, 2020)

Midbar Winery, Pinot Noir, 2018
Since its founding, Midbar went through at least three wine-making teams before Yiftach Lustig was hired, with Yotam Sharon consulting. As far as I know, the new team arrived and picked up the work from Shahar Landman with the 2018 vintage already in tanks, barrels, whatever. Between the three. they did a very good job because the oak influence is non-existent and the fruit shows a round, sweet character - I thought of cheesecake with strawberry sauce - that is delectable and surprisingly moreish, with a spicy finish that carries longer than I'd expected. It's interesting to post the notes against the Fromm, because the aromas remind me more of New Zealand than Burgundy, both showing a spiciness that makes me think of summer sun rather than Burgundy's moody autumn. Also, somewhere along the way, the Midbar team managed to contain the 14.4% ABV listed on the back label. It feels a degree lower. (July 9, 2020)

Comments