Pinot Gris, Kumeu – 2007
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Introduction
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In the Alsace region of France, Pinot Gris grapes are responsible for producing some of the most exquisitely luscious wines in the world. It is this style of wine that Kumeu River strives to emulate. While “gris” means “gray” in French, the skin of a Pinot Gris grape may appear anywhere from a dappled blue-gray to a pinkish brown, depending on where it is grown. The skins of the Kumeu River Pinot Gris grapes are amazingly bright red. When pressed, the juice has a slight pink color that disappears during the fermentation process to eventually reveal a wine with a lovely pale golden hue.
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Vineyard Profile
- Appellation: Kumeu
- Location: Kumeu, Auckland, North Island, New Zealand
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Vintage Report
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The 2007 vintage began with frost and hail in the spring, which reduced the yield of the Pinot Gris. The second half of the summer provided beautiful ripening conditions and the grapes were able to achieve a level of rich concentration and luscious texture in the Pinot Gris not seen before.
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Gris
- Production (in cases): 3,000 cases
- Production Case Pack: 12/750ml
- Cases Imported: 200
- Imported Case Pack: 12/750ml
- Alcohol: 13.5%
- TA: 6.0g/L
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Tasting Notes
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This is certainly the most layered and complex Pinot Gris Kumeu River has made to date. The indigenous yeast fermentation took place in tanks over an extended period, in conjunction with a partial malolactic fermentation. The 10 grams per liter of residual sugar is hardly noticeable due to the concentration of flavor and the textural richness that this wine displays.
The aromas have typical peach and stone fruit notes tinged with the floral spiciness that has come to be expected from Pinot Gris. On the palate the wine is rich and complex with lovely length of flavor. It is delicious now, but will continue to improve into the next year as demonstrated by previous vintages.
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Images
Reviews
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Pinot Gris, Kumeu – 2007 – 4 stars – Decanter
“Attractive floral nose with subtle notes of pear; smooth and stylish with lovely fruit. Good balance.”
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Pinot Gris, Kumeu – 2007 – 88 points – Wine Spectator
“Soft and spicy, with pretty peach and grapefruit flavors on a modest scale, lingering nicely on the bright, sweet-and-sour finish.”
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Pinot Gris, Kumeu – 2007 – 90 points – The Wine Advocate
“The lovely 2007 Pinot Gris has an aromatic, leesy nose inflected with white peach, guava, almond and a touch of rose petals, the palate very well-balanced and completely harmonious and natural.”