2010 Big Barrel Pinot Noir
Rich, Voluptuous, The Silken Temptress
Cellaring: 5-7 years
Production: 1100 cases
Tasting Notes
A beautifully balanced and elegant expression of this difficult to produce variety. The 2010 Pinot Noir is bright and vibrant with aromas of red berry fruits, cherries and an underlying smokiness derived from fermentation in barrel. The palate is youthful, lively and fruit forward showing hints of chocolate coffee bean. There is sufficient structure and acidity to ensure it will age well for the long haul.
Vinification
There are five stages in this process: pre-ferment cold soak (6-8 days), primary fermentation (8-10 days), post ferment maceration (7-14 days), Malolactic fermentation (approx 14 days), and barrel maturation (a further 9 months). All these stages are conducted in the Big Barrels, making this a unique wine.
The big barrel method
Acting as both a fermentation vessel and storage vessel these 900Lt barrels provide a unique and sophisticated environment for the production of Pinot Noir. They impart a high degree of complexity, facilitating seamless integration of the oak and generating excellent structure. The process allows the winemaker a great deal of flexibility in fermentation management and ensures the fruit is protected from rough handling.
Food Match
Pinot Noir is perhaps the greatest wine to match with food due to an almost infinite array of styles available. This wine will work well with game – particularly duck or quail. Well aged beef is always a winner. Mushrooms and truffle are extremely compatible with Pinot Noir.
