Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Noir

Growing Region: Bannockburn, Central Otago, New Zealand

Winemaker: Matt Connell

TASTING NOTE:
I have watched with anticipation every step Akarua has taken since first planting vines in 1996. Wine is very much like children, their personality is influenced greatly by their environment and then you wait to see how they express these influences: the climate, soil and the guidance from the vineyard team. Akarua is now in a strong position under the leadership of David Skeggs, award winning winemaker Matt Connell, and supported by the experience of viticulturist Gillian Wilson.

As with any good wine, this Pinot Noir has had nothing but the best care and attention from the time of day when the fruit was picked, pre and post fermentation macerations, oak treatment in various levels of toasted French barriques sourced from different forests.

In the glass you find it hard not to fall into the deep inviting red colour. A wine this young would be expected to have a slightly reserved nose, slowly deciding whether or not to show its full potential and to some degree this is true with this wine, but with a little time in the glass, or even better decanted, more than you were prepared for comes to your senses, with a bright aroma of violets, and dried herbs.

The palate is soft and enticing with ripe berry fruit flavours, but again with a little time it reveals a velvety texture and generous length to the finish. A wonderful vintage is evident in the concentration and balance of this wine. Decant for 1 hour. Serve at 16-17C.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
With decanting drinking this winter; and over the next 4-5 years.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with Pork & Lamb with roasted seasonal vegetables and mature cheeses, enjoy.

Trophy Winner - Royal Easter Wine Show 2011.