Wild Earth Central Otago Pinot Noir 2021  £31.93

WILD EARTH CENTRAL OTAGO PINOT NOIR 

Wild Earth founder Quintin Quider is an expatriate Californian who has spent many years living on the South Island. He has gathered a small, dedicated team to produce his Wild Earth range in Central Otago. Established in 1998, Wild Earth Wines owns 35 hectares of vineyards in two of the region's finest locations - at the end of Felton Road overlooking the Kawarau River and in the North Lowburn district beneath the imposing Pisa Range.

The grapes for this wine come from the 'Terraces' vineyard in Felton Road, Bannockburn. It is planted with predominantly Dijon clones (777,115 ,114 and 667),

The grapes were hand harvested at optimal ripeness throughout April. Seven separate ferments went into the blend, which used on average 25% whole clusters. The total time on skins was between three and four weeks to boost the tannic structure and aromatics of the wine. Maturation took place in fine grained French oak barriques (27% new, 33% year old and the remainder between two and five years old), for approximately 12 months.

This wine is deep garnet in colour with aromas of cherry, blackberry, cedar, wild thyme, mushroom and an underlying earthiness. The palate is rich in texture and complemented by red and black berry, wild herb and earthy flavours. This Pinot Noir is well structured with silky tannins and enticing layers of fruit.

Gold Medal - IWC 2020

Silver Medal - IWSC

The Real Review - 92 Points

Intense, medium-bodied red with dark cherry, dark-fleshed plum, violet, mocha and spicy oak flavours. Sweet fruit and alcohol is balanced by fruity acidity and mellow tannins. 

Bob Campbell MW