Block 5 Pinot Noir 2023

Located in the iconic Central Otago region of New Zealand's South Island, Felton Road's Block 5 vineyard lies within the Bannockburn sub-region, renowned for its distinctive Pinot Noir. Planted on deep clay-loam soils overlying schist gravel, this block benefits from a gently sloping aspect and a continental climate characterized by significant temperature variations. Viticulture is practiced using certified biodynamic methods, with meticulous soil management and naturally low yields to encourage the expression of the terroir.

The grapes from block 5 are hand-harvested, carefully sorted, then placed in vats as whole bunches and partially destemmed. Fermentation occurs spontaneously thanks to indigenous yeasts, with gentle punch-downs to delicately extract color and tannins. After racking, the wine is transferred to French oak barrels, a proportion of which are new, where it undergoes malolactic fermentation and ages for an extended period on its fine lees before bottling without filtration or with minimal intervention.

This wine reveals notes of black cherry , ripe raspberry , and plum , complemented by floral touches of violet and peony , as well as spicy nuances of sweet pepper and clove . Discreet oak accents of cedar and sweet spices mingle with a subtly mineral structure. The palate displays a silky texture, fresh acidity, fine yet present tannins, and a long, precise finish that maintains a beautiful tension.

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!