Name of Estate/Domaine:
Produced by Selection Massale, a winery founded by Dan Gillet in 2021.
Country/Region:
Country/Region: New Zealand, specifically the Central Otago region, which is renowned for its exceptional Pinot Noir production.
Grape/Blend: 100% Pinot Noir
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: The wine displays a bright crimson red color.
- Aroma: It offers a bouquet of sweet, juicy red fruits such as blackberry and Morello cherry, with hints of cacao and spice.
- Palate: The palate is plush and supple, featuring flavors of black cherry and raspberry, with herbal notes like thyme and a touch of earthiness. The wine has a long, persistent finish with balanced acidity.
Terroir:
The vineyards are planted in soils that include silt overlaying clay and limestone, with fragments of schist.
Viticulture:
- Selection Massale sources grapes from certified organic vineyards.
- Grapes are handpicked to ensure quality and minimize damage during harvest.
- The winemaking process includes 75% whole bunch fermentation, enhancing complexity and texture.
Vinification:
- The grapes undergo wild fermentation in stainless steel tanks, where they are gently macerated for 4 weeks.
- The wine is pressed into aged French oak barriques for approximately 12 months, allowing for full malolactic fermentation and aging on lees.
- The wine is bottled unfiltered and unfined to maintain its natural character.
Food pairing:
- Grilled lamb or duck dishes
- Mushroom risotto or pasta with creamy sauces
- Charcuterie boards featuring cured meats and cheeses
- Roasted vegetables
This wine is best enjoyed at around 16-18°C, allowing its flavors to fully develop alongside food.
