2021 Bellbrae Estate Tetaz Pinot Noir

2021 Bellbrae Estate Tetaz Pinot Noir

Vineyard

Hand picked from 8 rows on the eastern edge of our 25 year old MV6 Pinot Noir, this parcel of fruit gets just a touch more sunlight as this side is slightly raised in comparison to the rest of the block. The 2021 vintage started with a mild spring with intermittent showers and was followed by an equally mild summer; perfect for growing Pinot Noir. Flavours and maturity were slightly above the 2020 with rich tannins and a touch more alcohol.

Vinification

Using 2t open fermenters, we fermented using 25% whole bunch with 1 hand plunge & 1 pump over per day for 7 days. Pressing occurred upon dryness & the resultant wine was racked to new & 1 year old French barriques and hogsheads for Malolactic Fermentation. Once sulphured, the wine spent 6 months in the same barrels. We blended this wine in late October and the 2 barrels selected were the obvious 2 best barrels. Finished for 3 months in 1 year old French Hogsheads, the final blend was filtered & bottled in February 2022.

Winemaker's Tasting Notes

A deep and vibrant crimson colour gives an indication of the depth of the 2021 vintage. A lifted aroma of cassis and cedarwood is followed by a gloriously rich palate of plum and raspberry that will last for years to come. A soft but firm tannin structure ensures that this wine will go the distance of 10 to 15 years. Best drunk with a variety of rich meat dishes.