Red Wine - Pinot Noir 2021

Background

Mount Brown Estates is named after our first vineyard in the foothills of Mount  Brown in the Waipara Valley. Pinot Noir is the first red grape we grew on that  vineyard, planted in 2001.

Geographical Indicator: Waipara, North Canterbury

Source: 100% Pinot Noir grapes, Mount Brown Rd and Weka Gravels vineyards

Varietal Composition and viticulture

The vines are predominantly Davis and Dijon clones; the Davis is slightly sweeter and  the Dijon a more earthy flavour. The rootstock is Schwarzmann, a very low vigour dwarf rootstock.

Winemaking

Fruit was destemmed into open top fermenters and cold soaked. The must was  hand plunged three times daily for the duration of the fermentation. Post ferment  the wine remained on skins for up to twenty days before being gently pressed  directly to French oak barriques. Malolactic fermentation was encouraged and  completed by early spring. The wine was not fined so is suitable for a vegan diet.

Tasting Notes

It is a dark plum colour with dark berry and ripe cherry aromas. The palate is round and generous with medium tannins and well-balanced acidity. Some black pepper spices add to the complexity of the wine.

Accolades

4 stars, Michael Campbell
93 points, Cameron Douglas, MS

Winemaker: Frank Manifold

Viticulturist: Andrew Florance