Winemaking notes
100 % Pinot Gris was harvested later in
the growing season to allow full ripening of the
synonymous Pinot Gris flavours and acid profile. Whole bunches were pressed into mostly stainless-steel tanks with a minority being transferred into oak puncheons. Fermentation was carried out with cooler temperatures
to retain the bright stonefruit aromas. Oak portions were stirred on a weekly basis to promote mouthfeel and roundness with the wine being assembled after 3-4 months on light lees.
Viticultural notes
Within the Marlborough wine region, Waihopai River Vineyard lies on the flats on the right bank of the Waihopai River, at the mouth of the Waihopai Valley. A great growing region for Pinot Gris. What makes the Waihopai River Vineyard such a great place is the exceptional diversity across the one site. It consists of three terraces, formed by glacial movement over thousands of years. The bottom terrace consists of the old river bed, with silt, silty clay loam and gravel soils. Diverging seams of varying soils give real diversity of flavours to work with. The middle terrace has more gutsy soil, with more fertile topsoil overlaying the gravels below. This area also gives a wide range of flavours and characteristics. The top terrace is the largest of the three, and varies across its width from west to east. The soils from the west of the terrace are very similar to the mid-terrace, and as you go towards the Delta Hill, the soils get gradually deeper and richer, and in this area specifically, the shade that the hill provides adds to the variable conditions.
Tasting notes
Rich aromas of ripe peach, apricot and grapefruit are intertwined with a nutty, spicy oak character.
The lush palate invokes stone fruit flavours supported with an opulent texture derived from barrel integration. The wine finishes deliciously dry with a bright citrus acidity.
Pairing notes
Have it alone or enjoy it with seared or grilled fish and also simple oven-roasted chicken.