2018 PINOT NOIR
About the vintage
2018 went well for us although wasn’t without a few weather issues! Having our own harvester meant we could go and pick each block exactly when we wanted to – perfect in a more challenging year!
The winemaking
Made with grapes from our Wairau and Waihopai Valley vineyards, the fruit was ripe and juicy with a good balance of acidity. Firstly, the fruit underwent cold maceration for just under a week, prior to small-batch fermentation. After two to three weeks on skins, the wine was pressed off. 75% was matured in barrel (predominantly older oak, three to five years old) for ten months while the rest remained in tank. The wine was not fined so is vegan-friendly. Alcohol content 13%
What the wine is like
Bright ruby red, this fruity Pinot Noir offers an enticing nose of ripe, berry fruit. It is juicy and smooth with a velvety texture and lots of sweet raspberry and cherry flavours together with a touch of spice. Gentle tannins provide backbone but don’t overpower this attractive wine.
When to enjoy
This is the perfect red for any occasion – gentle and fruity enough to enjoy on its own yet substantial and flexible enough to go with a wide variety of dishes. Serve at room temperature, although you can enjoy this wine after half an hour in the fridge on a warm day!
Suggested food pairings
Pinot Noir loves food, especially roast lamb, game, ham, seared salmon, seared tuna, Asian flavours and anything off the barbecue.