Block 3 Pinot Noir 2023

Located in the Central Otago region of New Zealand's South Island, Felton Road's Block 3 vineyard lies within the Bannockburn sub-region, renowned for its exceptionally precise Pinot Noirs. Planted on ancient terraces with silty-clay and schist soils, it benefits from a cool continental climate characterized by significant temperature variations. The moderate altitude and abundant sunshine allow for slow and complete ripening of the grapes, resulting in wines that are concentrated, elegant, and imbued with a beautiful freshness.

The grapes for Block 3 are hand-harvested, fully destemmed, and then gravity-fed into the vats. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks using indigenous yeasts, with gentle punch-downs to extract color and fine tannins. After racking, the wine is transferred to French oak barrels, a limited proportion of which are new, where it undergoes malolactic fermentation and extended aging on fine lees before bottling without fining or heavy filtration, in order to preserve the integrity of the terroir.

This wine reveals notes of black cherry , raspberry , and plum , complemented by floral touches of violet and peony, as well as spicy nuances of sweet pepper and clove. Subtle oak accents, reminiscent of cedar and vanilla, mingle with a discreet mineral structure. On the palate, the texture is silky, supported by lively acidity, fine tannins, and a long, precise finish that underscores the wine's balance.

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!