product details
key information
- Region: Central Otago
- Sub-Region: Bannockburn
- Style: n/a
- Vintage: 2008
- Taste guide:
- Grape variety: Pinot Noir
- Alcohol Content (%): 14
- Organic/Vegan/Vegetarian:
Felton Road wines is located in Bannockburn, Central Otago in New Zealand, the most southerly wine growing region in the World. Here, vineyards are nestled into small macroclimates totally surrounded by high mountains, many of which are snowcapped all year round. Though the location is on the edge of sustainable viticulture these macroclimates consistently combine hot days, cool nights and long dry autumns: perfect for the creation of fine Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling. The latitude of 45 degrees south is similar to the Willamette Valley in Oregon and some of the finest wine regions of France.
Map of local region click to enlarge
Central Otago is New Zealand's only wine region with a continental climate rather than a maritime one. This brings the risk of frosts but has the benefit of low rainfall and high sunshine hours. Of the five distinct macroclimates so far identified in Central Otago, Bannockburn, with its gentle north facing slopes and deep loess soils seems well suited to the production of complex Pinot Noir.
As is often the case, the initial entry of the wine is the lightest of all the 2008 Pinot Noirs: expressing crushed herbs and minerality. Then the wine starts to build through the palate as earthy raspberry and cherry kick in, stepping up a gear as chocolate, mocha and minerality combine with rich, fine tannin to overwhelm the fruit in a long and very powerful finish. Pair with game, red meats and cheeses.