I was listening to an interview with Clive Jones, winemaker at Nautilus Estate, and it was easy to see how much he enjoyed working there. You could tell it in his voice. There was excitement, exuberance, and a genuineness about everything he said and his down-to-earth quality is very relatable. Greek philosopher, Aristotle, is quoted as saying, “Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.” It was clear to me that Clive Jones gets a great deal of pleasure out of his job and it shows in the wines he makes. Such is evident here with these two Pinot Noirs. He seeks perfection and it doesn’t get much closer on both counts.
Region: Malborough, New Zealand Source: Sample thanks kindly to Hill- Smith Family Estates
2020 Nautilus Southern Valleys Pinot Noir (RRP $40)
Well hello to you, you luscious Pinot Noir you! What a delight, especially for the price. It offers up plenty on the nose that captivates your thoughts on just what this is going to taste like…and it does not let you down. It is concentratingly (not a real word I know) varietal while sitting in the medium-bodied realm . Dark cherry, mid-palate enriching plumminess, black pepper and spice, finishing elegantly smooth, and long with lovely balanced mouthfeel.
2020 Nautilus Clay Hills Vineyard Pinot Noir (RRP $110)
This is a Pinot with presence. While the Southern Valleys Pinot Noir is terrific, this Clay Hills Vineyard wine elevates the experience into a more complex territory. The aromatics are immediately engaging, blackberries, ripe cherries, a trace of spice, and an earthy note, all of which really get things off to a perfect start. On the palate, those dark fruits show their quality along with plum-like softness, hints of red berries and a nice subtle herbal note. It is beautifully balanced, with silky tannins that glide to a finish of impressive length. It’s generous yet poised and lush without being overindulgent. Quite simply, a standout Pinot Noir. Elegant, expressive, and thoroughly delightful.
Words from a Wine Glass 