Pinot Noir: Australia, New Zealand & California

This comparison of one of the world's most celebrated varieties, from three entirely different countries / states, is condensed from a couple of generic wine tastings held in Dublin recently. I've narrowed the Pinot talk down to 25 flavoursome recommendations, many of them available in Ireland, the UK and the US; and some brief info about the regions featured.

Australia & New Zealand: 12 Rieslings.

This is the first of a few 'themed' posts featuring my favourites from a recent Australia and New Zealand wine tasting in Dublin.

Why not start with a dozen classy white wines made from the ultimate wine-geek variety Riesling - does it now figure on people's wine shopping lists, or is everyone still obsessed with Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio? If it's the latter, you're missing out.

New Zealand Pinot Noir Part 1: Central Otago, North Canterbury, Nelson, Wairarapa, Hawke's Bay.

New Zealand Winegrowers Inc - Mishas Vineyard, Central Otago.

This stunning shot of Misha's Vineyard in Central Otago reminds us this wine region in the south-of-centre of New Zealand's South Island is distinctly 'cool climate', to coin that overused term. The Pinot Noir variety has adapted well to the climate and landscape here; and local winemakers can confidently claim to be producing some really delicious and fine Pinots, even if, inevitably perhaps, these wines now represent some of NZ's most expensive.