Marlborough May 2014
Sam's comments
Flavours arrived early in the growing season giving good intensity. Brix levels were lower this year but with intense flavours thanks to the strong start in growing season. We beat the rain and avoided any dilution of the flavours. The vineyard team recognised the large crop levels so were able to crop to an acceptable level again leaving us with good intense flavours in the winery.
Nick's Comments
The Pinot Noir from the 2014 vintage is exceptional, showing great concentration and finesse which Marlborough is renowned for. Shoot thinning and leaf exposure during the growing season were perfectly managed, allowing the sugars to accumulate slowly in the fruit, giving the seeds the best chance to mature. The resulting wines are concentrated with elegant smooth tannins. It is a shame we have to wait 12 months until they come back out of the barrels!
A great team effort - along with our permanent NZ staff we had assistance of cellar hands from the following countries........
France
Spain
Germany
UK
Vintage Team 2014
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