Saint Clair Doctors Creek Block 14 Pinot Noir 2017

Saint Clair Doctors Creek Block 14 Pinot Noir 12 bottles for the price of 10 special offer for a limited period and exclusive to Wineman

Interesting flavours arise from the deep clays of Block 14, named after the original owner. The cooler climate and longer ripening period produce pretty, fragrant aromatics year after year. In addition to its natural flavours this pinot noir was oak matured and regularly tasted for balance. Hidden in its bright ruby depths lie flavours of succulent ripe black cherries, aromatic red plum, and violets. This wine could be kept for a further three years to allow it to develop further or be drunk straight away. A wine perfectly crafted for get-togethers where spring lamb is on the menu.

Winery Information

The Saint Clair Family Estate was first settled by the Sinclair family. One of the estate's pioneers, James Sinclair, is closely associated with the founding of the town of Blenheim. Neal and Judy Ibbotson have owned the estate since 1978, transforming it from a vineyard to a full winemaking facility and joining the ranks of Marlborough winemakers to produce fine New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and other premium wines. The very first vintage from Saint Clair Wines won awards upon its release in 1994. Saint Clair's sustainable approach to winemaking involves an open canopy with good light and airflow, minimal use of sprays to control pests and care given to individual vines to encourage good production. For instance, the vineyard employs leaf plucking and thinning of fruits and shoots. They also encourage selection without cultivation as another of their sustainable practices. They have been using a grading system since 2001 as a management tool and for assessing the quality of each vineyard's wine batches.

Vinification

The fruit was harvested when it had reached full physiological ripeness and maximum flavour maturity. At the winery, the fruit was held cold for four to five days prior to ferment. Cultured yeasts were used to ferment the wine and during ferment, the must was hand plunged up to six times daily. Once dry each batch was pressed to tank and then racked off gross lees to a mix of new and used French oak/ The wine then underwent malolactic fermentation and was aged for 9 months in barrel before being blended, and carefully prepared for bottling.

Tasting Note
A rounded luscious Pinot Noir with a soft full palate and well-balanced acidity. Good length of fruit with flavours dominated by red currant and cherries, complemented by hints of plums. Oak ageing has lent warm savoury notes on the palate.

Everyday Serving Suggestion
Saint Clair Doctors Creek Block 14 Pinot Noir is perfectly matched with spring lamb, sweet potatoes and roast vegetables.

Country / Region / Appellation
NZ / Marlborough / Marlborough

Winemaker
Hamish Clark

Additional Resources:
http://www.saintclair.co.nz/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqUgUMqp89E