April 2021 Winefront reviews - Campbell Mattinson
Bannockburn Chardonnay 2021
'Grown on a range of vineyards across the Bannockburn holdings, from 1976 plantings through to the most recent (2016). 20% new oak, with 70% of the final wine going through malo. Bannockburn chardonnay is never short of flavour and so to this release, though the fresh zing of the finish brings a more modern twist, arguably. Pear, grapefruit, peach, cracked wheat and cedar flavours come strong and convincing, aided by citrus and fennel notes, the latter especially notable on the finish. The flavour of tinned pear here is as strong as it is delicious, it must be noted. This is an excellent release; it’s good for drinking now but it has many years up its sleeve.' 94 points, November 2021.
Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2021
'Bannockburn has never really been out of form but I get the feeling that winemaker Matt Holmes and team have the ship about where they want it to be, now. This is a beauty. Fragrant and attractive from the outset but then expansive on the palate as well. Earth, twigs, root vegetables and cherries with woodsy spice notes rippling throughout. Tension and flow, texture and tannin. There’s a smoky meatiness to the aftertaste, mixed in with decaying red roses, and it’s most attractive way for the wine to sail out. Drink it now, drink it later; it will deliver.' 94+ points, April 2022.
