Rock Ferry Marlborough Pinot Gris 2008

 
Vineyard:                  The Corners

 

Region:                      Wairau Plains, Marlborough. The vineyard is situated within an ancient bend of the Opawa River and the name The Corners in fact refers to the shape of the road which follows this old river channel.

Vintage:                     The 2008 vintage had ideal growing conditions throughout the season only dampened by rain in the latter part of the harvest. Warm flowering conditions in late spring suggested good crop levels and alternating periods of rain and sun over summer provided the optimal grape growing momentum to harvest time. Early varieties were picked in perfect conditions while strict selection in picking the later varieties saw good quality fruit come in.
Viticulture:              Our aim is best summed up by 'fine wine begins with the vine'. Our approach is through organic and bio-dynamic viticulture (The Corners Vineyard is in conversion to BioGro certification) where we strive for balance in the vineyard. This ultimately provides grapes that are a reflection of our particular site.
Winemaking:           Hand harvested and whole bunch pressed, clear juice ex press direct to old oak (85%) and stainless steel barrels (15%), pressings (15%) processed separately and blended back at pre-bottle.

Yeast:                         85% cultured, 15% indigenous (free run component cultured (58W3), pressings component indigenous)

Maturation:               In barrel on ferment lees     Duration:  3½ months

Tasting Notes:         Gentle bouquet displaying spice and quince with a touch of minerality. The palate shows classic baked pear flavours with a rounded mid palate and long finish.     

Food Match:             Wild mushroom & vegetable ragout with capellini pasta and shaved parmesan

Cellaring:                  Recommended 4 years.

Technical:                 alc  13 %,     pH 3.3,      TA 6.1 g/l,      RS 8.9 g/l

Bottling Date:          4 September 2008
 
Winemaker:              Allan McWilliams