Felton Road Pinot Noir 2006
Bannockburn, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand
100% Pinot Noir
Our earliest starting date yet of March 17 after a particularly hot and dry summer (many days over 30°C with temperatures peaking at 39°C). The hot dry weather through flowering resulted in large berries and large crops leading us to saignée almost all tanks and make another Vin Gris. 2006 made perfumed and elegant wines with a wonderful natural balance. Perhaps not the fruit intensity or depth of the brooding 2005’s, but wines that can best be compared to the elegant 2001’s and 2003’s. Somewhat of a landmark vintage for us being our 10th vintage and also the first where 100% of our Pinot Noir vineyards are being farmed organically and biodynamically.
11 months in French Oak Barrels, from highly regarded Burgundian Coopers.
Tasting Notes
A nose of plum, dark cherry and herbs with oriental spice. Palate Ripeness drives the palate, no jamminess but a rich, dark compote of black fruit laced with raspberry and chocolate. Ripe, dusty fine tannins complete the finish. Good depth and length will allow the wine to age grace fully for up to 5+ years. Soft tannins contribute to a long silky finish allowing the wine to also be enjoyed in its youth.
92, Wine Advocate
The ensuing 2006 Pinot Noir cropped up in a blind tasting and shone brilliantly, somewhat closed at first with a certain earthiness and then violets, the palate imbued with grainy tannins, pure brambly fruit and superb delineation on the refined finish. - Neal Martin
