van Asch Pinot Noir 2001

 

Variety:                  100% Pinot Noir

 

Region:                   100% Gibbston, Central Otago

 

Vineyard Name:  ‘Havoc Farm’ was planted on ‘Pigburn’ soils in Gibbston in 1992, and is a 3.5ha vineyard, now showing great vine maturity. We consistently see small tight berries with a delicate fragrance and depth of flavour from this beautiful vineyard based on the Gibbston Back Road.

 

Philosophy:           Our aim is best summed up by “fine wine begins with the vine”. Our approach is through sustainable viticulture where we strive for ‘balance’ in the vineyard. This ultimately provides grapes that are a reflection of our particular site or as the French say “terroir”.

 

Winemaking:        Grapes were picked on the 9th & 10th May, and destemmed into very small fermenters without the addition of any whole bunches. They were allowed to cold soak for 5 days prior to inoculation. During this time, the berries were punched down once a day to ensure maximum colour uptake into the final wine. The juice was kept at a constant 13 degrees until inoculation 6 days later when the temperature rose. The primary ferment lasted 6 days, with a post-fermentation maceration period of 7 days. The juice then spent 18 days in stainless steel tanks, and was racked to French barrels (33% new).

 

Tasting Notes:      Dark ruby red with brick edges. Bouquet of summer pudding,  dried herbs, dark fruits and spicy bread. The palate has red fruits coupled with tight tannins and fresh acidity. Great food wine when matched to rich gamey dishes.

 

Cellaring:               Recommended drinking now-2008.

 

 

Winemaker:         Grant Taylor