2015 ‘BLACK POPLAR BLOCK’ PINOT NOIR

Vineyard 

The ‘Black Poplar Block’ is a  four  hectare  planting.  It takes its name  from  the  two  majestic  100  year  old  Black  Poplar  trees  that   dominate  this  area  of  the  vineyard.  This wine is crafted from  our  older  vines  planted  in  1995. The 2015 growing season started with a cool spring with a series of frosts and slow growth in the vineyard. A short flowering in December resulting in an average and uniform cropload. Settled and warm weather through January led to healthy and even ripening. Occasional rainfall in February ensured steady growth while having minimal disease pressure.  Ripening then progressed as normal with berries reaching optimal flavours/ concentration and harvest in late March. While 2015 had its challenges, the great condition and concentration of the fruit harvested made it possible to make a wine that clearly expresses its site or Terrior. The wine has matured  in  French  oak  barriques  (one  third  new)  for  nine months then bottled in early 2016. To maintain site expression in the wine minimal intervention is practiced both in  the  vineyard  and  in  the  winery.

Winemakers Note

Colour:               Deep ruby with a purple hue.

Bouquet:           Well integrated aromas of spice,  pinot  noir  perfume and oak

Palate:               Fine tannins with intense red/dark fruits

Cellar:                5-­10 years

2015: Technical Details

Region:              Pisa -­ Central Otago

Variety:             100% Pinot Noir  

Alcohol:             15.0% alc.

Maturation:     9 months in seasoned French oak  barriques, one third new.