Winemaking is very similar to that of the Hope Vineyard Pinot though there is less time on skins for some batches with a view to preserving fruit focus and moderating extraction of tannins. Similarly the level of both new and one year old oak is carefully managed so that it plays a subtle, supportive role. It is important to us that the style of this wine is neither over-ripe nor overly structured. Together with its brambly, red-fruited freshness, the wine has a lightness and poise. This characteristic signature is present here in spite of the added level of ripeness and vigour that the excellent 2017 vintage has provided. Attractively aromatic. Summer berry-fruits, citrusy, floral notes and a lightly spiced, herbal fragrance. Suggestive of the outdoors. Earth, mushroom notes evolve as the wine opens in the glass. The palate is vibrant and brightly red-fruited with a light spicy savouriness and supple structure of well-bound tannins. There is a depth in the exotic guava and quince which have a secondary, preserve-like richness. A refreshing plum-skin tanginess and chalky, minerality balances these ripper flavours.
Winemaking is very similar to that of the Hope Vineyard Pinot though there is less time on skins for some batches with a view to preserving fruit focus and moderating extraction of tannins. Similarly the level of both new and one year old oak is carefully managed so that it plays a subtle, supportive role. It is important to us that the style of this wine is neither over-ripe nor overly structured. Together with its brambly, red-fruited freshness, the wine has a lightness and poise. This characteristic signature is present here in spite of the added level of ripeness and vigour that the excellent 2017 vintage has provided. Attractively aromatic. Summer berry-fruits, citrusy, floral notes and a lightly spiced, herbal fragrance. Suggestive of the outdoors. Earth, mushroom