Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Noir

Growing Region: Bannockburn, Central Otago

Chief Winemaker: Jacqueline Kemp

TASTING NOTE:
The 2006 vintage at Akarua had an early start to this year. The season was relatively frost free leading up to Xmas and during fruit development, long warm days and lovely cool nights.

Akarua's vineyard is situated on alluvial terraces, consisting of light sand and schist-based soils. Their aspect and elevation result in a frost free vineyard for most vintages, also aided by their northern, sunny position. These unique features, along with careful vineyard management result in ripe grapes and wines of consistently high quality.

They use small vat fermentation to retain this complexity and special vineyard characters. The wine was matured in French oak for up to 11 months. Then estate bottled at Akarua to ensure optimum quality standards.

This 2006 'Gullies' Pinot Noir confidently shows a vibrant bouquet of wild strawberries and raspberries. With subtle hints of dried mushrooms, earthiness and hints of smokey herbs integrate well with the floral nose. The palate is well balanced with good, natural fruit acidity and supple tannins. The wine is showing well early in it's development, plus the fruit, tannins and oak will soften nicely with age.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Decant for 30 minutes to drink now, or age for another 2-3 years and enjoy.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
This wine pairs well with pork, subtle game dishes, even a good winter stew.

4 Stars - Cuisine, November 2007