Tasting from 12.11.2021
With Pinot Noir featuring so prominently in our first print issue, out on 12 November 2021, it was clear that our first ever Falstaff Trophy also had to centre on Pinot Noir. Since the finest expressions of Pinot Noir command rather serious prices, our aim was to highlight the more affordable wines. It is a good thing we did because we found so much that is affordable and exquisite. All wines were tasted blind: it was a joy to realise that the world has learned to let Pinot be Pinot: to show its translucent charm, not to over-extract or smother its inherent delicacy with oak. The focus was n purity of fruit. We received entry-level wines of estates that also make wines with far more concentration, longevity and profound expression of place, and in this value category he wines, necessarily, were simpler. But what we saw was a picture of unforced, beautifully depicted fruit. Perhaps this is underappreciated, but we feel that these subtle, lighter wines absolutely have their place and bring much joy. If this is a style you love, this list is essential reading. These wines represent extraordinary value and we are happy to present the winning wines and all the runners-up.
