Methode Traditionnelle

Chardonnay

Sauvignon Blanc

Aromatic

Dessert Wine

Rose

Red Wine
 

Mount Dottrel Central Otago 2008 Pinot Noir

The philosophy of Mount Dottrel is to ensure the label becomes synonymous with quality. To that extent they aim to produce high quality Pinot Noir wines which are honest and unpretentious but with character and true kiwi charm.

The Mount Dottrel vineyard is situated on glacial schist, which are low fertility, alluvial soils typical of the Cromwell basin in central Otago. It experiences a cool climate of continental extremes. In other words, like the rest of Central Otago, it experiences very cold temperatures in winter and hot, dry summers. The autumns in the basin tend to be cool and dry, promoting intense flavour in the fruit.

This wine was crafted from an exceptional crop under the care of award winning winemaker Carol Bunn after the fruit was harvested when it reached optimum ripeness and 25 Brix. The juice was fermented in small, open top stainless steel fermenters for approximately twenty-one to thirty days. The wine was then barrel matured in French barriques. Approximately 70 percent of these were one to three years old, with the remainder being new barriques.

I found this wine to have aromas of black cherry and plum with earthy notes and a hint of herbs. On the palate I found flavours of cherry and plum also present with savoury notes. The wine has supple tannins and is an elegant textural wine with a long lingering finish. It is drinking well now but should soften and open up with careful cellaring. I would recommend trying it with lamb cutlets or a lamb roast. It would also be suited to enjoy with game dishes like duck and venison.

Reviewed by Stephen Clark (16/8/2010)
 

>> Back to Wine Search <<