Methode Traditionnelle

Chardonnay

Sauvignon Blanc

Aromatic

Dessert Wine

Rose

Red Wine
 

Saint Clair Pioneer Block 16 Awatere Block 2008 Pinot Noir

This week’s wine is yet another I believe is a good one to enjoy in winter. This Pinot Noir as its name suggests is in the vicinity of the Awatere Valley. In fact Saint Clair’s Awatere Block vineyard is on a north facing hillside overlooking the Awatere Valley, 25km south of Blenheim.

The winery consists of first crop vines on windblown loess over clay. The closely planted vines on the devigourating soils of the gentle north facing slope combine with a long ripening season to provide perfect conditions for development of tannins and concentrated flavour. The vines are clones 115 and 777. The site also has a cooler maritime influence which sees acid and flavour retention in the fruit.

The fruit was harvested when it reached full physiological ripeness and maximum flavour maturity. At the winery, the fruit was held cold for four to five days prior to ferment to help extract maximum flavour and to help with colour stability. Cultured yeasts were used for the ferment and the must was hand plunged up to six times per day during this process. Once dry, each batch was pressed to tank and racked off gross lees. Half of the volume went to 100% new French oak, with the rest in stainless steel. The wine then underwent malolactic fermentation and was aged for nine months in barrel before blending and being prepared for bottling.

I found the ruby red 2008 Saint Clair Awatere Block Pinot Noir to have wonderful aromas of dark berries and herbs, with lifted floral notes. On the palate I found it to be an elegant wine with flavours of berries, black cherry and spice, with an intense, lingering finish.

I would recommend this wine with lamb cutlets or grilled steak with mushroom sauce. It should cellar well for up to five years.

Reviewed by Stephen Clark (9/8/2010)
 

>> Back to Wine Search <<