Stoneleigh's Vineyards are located towards the northern side of Wairau Valley in close proximity to the mighty Wairau River. Often referred to as the
Rapaura series of soils, they are relatively young, based on river silts and stones, low in nutrients they offer very little water holding capacity. True to the Stoneleigh style, this soft, supple wine captures the essence of Marlborough. Fragrant and flavoursome, it has been fashioned from small blocks of varying clones and rootstocks, achieving a completely integrated and complex style of Pinot Noir.
A mix of 10/5, UCD5, UCD6 and an array of Dijon clones including 777, 667, 114 and 115, all grown on a mixture of rootstocks which are carefully matched to the various soil substrates. Following the harvest, grapes are destemmed and cold soaked for up to seven days prior to vinification which is carried out in a combination of open and closed top fermenters. A mixture of wild and cultured yeast strains are used to express the essence of the unique terroir. The wine was drained off skins to barrel and underwent malolactic fermantation followed by maturation in a combination of well seasoned French oak barriques by a number of select coopers, before being sent, unfined to bottling. Alcohol 14.4%
TASTING NOTESA deep, ruby red hue. A fragrant bouquet of black cherry, raspberry and red plums overlaid by integrated oak spice. The palate shows ripe, red berry fruit flavours and lingering fruit sweetness. Tannins are fine and integrated, making the wine immediately approachable. Designed for immediate enjoyment, any dishes featuring mushrooms or red berry fruits will complement beautifully.