Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2023

Located in the Central Otago region of New Zealand's South Island, the Bannockburn vineyard benefits from a distinctly continental climate, with significant temperature variations between day and night. The vines on Felton Road are planted on north-facing slopes at moderate altitudes, in soils composed of loess, schist, and ancient glacial deposits. This mosaic of terroirs, combined with certified organic and biodynamic viticulture, allows for the precise expression of Pinot Noir's character and the unique character of Bannockburn.

The grapes are hand-harvested as whole bunches, sorted in the vineyard and then again at the winery. The berries are gravity-fed into the vats, with varying proportions of whole bunches, for spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel and wooden vats, with gentle punch-downs. After racking, the wine is transferred to French oak barrels, a small proportion of which are new, for extended aging on fine lees before blending and bottling without fining or excessive filtration, in order to preserve the integrity of the Bannockburn terroir.

This wine reveals notes of red fruit , black cherry , and plum , complemented by floral touches reminiscent of violet, spicy nuances of sweet pepper and clove, and subtle woody accents of cedar and delicate smoke. On the palate, the texture is silky , supported by fresh acidity and fine tannins , offering a harmonious structure and a persistent, remarkably pure finish .

Introduced in 1819, viticulture was greatly developed by Jean-Baptiste Pompallier, a French Marist missionary. Sent to Oceania in 1837, he settled there in January 1838 to develop New Zealand's vineyards. The first quality vineyards were established in the Hawke's Bay region during the 19th and early 20th centuries. After production setbacks initially caused by phylloxera and then the First World War, the vineyards began to expand again during the Second World War, doubling in size. Today, New Zealand has 10 major wine regions spread across the North and South Islands, the largest of which is Marlborough. Most of New Zealand's wine regions have a maritime climate. The country's long, narrow shape means that vineyards are never more than 120 km from the coast, and most are even much closer (with the exception of the semi-continental region of Central Otago). A mountain spine running through the center of the country protects most of the major wine regions from the strong westerly winds from the Tasman Sea known as the "Roaring Forties." Because of these winds, there are few wine regions on New Zealand's west coast. The quality and reputation of New Zealand wines are well established. Indeed, the country produces some of the best and most renowned Sauvignon Blanc in the world. And it's no coincidence that New Zealand has managed to make Sauvignon Blanc its symbol, alongside its sheep, kiwifruit, and the legendary haka!