The winter of 2020 was relatively mild and dry. Spring came early, but there were frosts to contend with, one in particular causing damage to many of our Kumeu vineyards. Similarly at our Rays Road vineyard in Hawkes Bay there were frost events, but thankfully damage was minimal. Flowering took place well ahead of normal, and it was obvious that the season would be very early this year. The growing season rainfall was only sporadic, maintaining the dry conditions, and the temperatures were moderately warm. These relatively cool to warm, and dry conditions allowed for slow grape maturation, and the development of excellent fruit aromas and flavors. Harvest was completed by 9 March, about 3 weeks ahead of usual. In Kumeu the frost damage had lowered yields by 30-40%, but the overall quality was exceptional. In Hawkes Bay, our Rays Road vineyard also performed admirably, with the grapes ripening a few days later than our Kumeu vineyards. While the Chardonnay yields were about normal, the Pinot was down somewhat, and this allowed for some very good color and flavor development.

100% hand harvested

100% de-stemmed then crushed

Indigenous yeast fermentation

2 weeks total cuvaison

Twice daily remontage

7 months maturation in tank

Both Hawkes Bay and Kumeu vineyards experienced smaller harvests and this produced very concentrated and vibrant Pinot Noir. The blend this year is 65% Rays Road and 35% Kumeu. The wine displays a bright cherry red/burgundy color with lifted red fruit aromas. On the palate the wine is cool, round and fruity and with a nice hint of chalky tannin that keeps the wine dry and refreshing.