Viticulture Sourced from the renowned Ben Morven and Slopes vineyards, the 2015 vintage was naturally low yielding, with a long ripening period that has ensured optimal fruit expression and super supple tannin. Our Pinot Noir vines are planted in the deep clay loams of the Southern Valleys, universally regarded as the finest Pinot Noir terroir in Marlborough. The vines are cane pruned and meticulously tended to achieve a naturally balanced crop of intensely flavoured fruit. Vintage Having survived a string of spring frosts, the timing of budburst was nearly identical to last year though a subsequent cooling off meant early vine development wasn't quite as vigorous as seen previously. November was dry, with temperatures slightly above average. December bought with it a noticeable drop in temperature and just shy of 10mm of rain. This was to coincide with the critical stages of flowering and fruit set and goes some way to explain the lighter than usual 2015 yields. By Christmas the weather had begun to warm up and we hit a sustained patch of hot, dry weather that lasted through to the middle of March before the weather broke and the district finally got some rain. Winemaking In the winery the fruit was completely de-stemmed, but not crushed, aiming for a significant percentage of intact berries in the ferment. Individual batches were macerated cold prior to a five day fermentation where the cap temperature was allowed to peak at between 30° - 32°C. The wine remained on skins post fermentation to optimise tannin extraction whilst locking in the deep, ruby colour. Drained and pressed; this wine was then aged in mix of tank and French oak puncheons for nine months during which time it underwent a complete malo-lactic fermentation. A late summer bottling followed blending. Colour Dark ruby red with a vibrant purple rim. Aroma An especially low yielding growing season has resulted in a Pinot Noir with exceptional fruit vibrancy and intensity reminiscent of herb infused red cherry and black berry fruits with a complimentary lick of smoky French oak. Palate The palate further demonstrates the inherent qualities of a low yielding season with a saturated core of dark berry fruits encased in a firm but deliciously smooth tannin texture whilst bright focused acids brings these elements of fruit and tannin to life, enhancing mouthfeel, length and freshness. Food Matching An iconic Kiwi wine and food combo: The Ned Pinot Noir 2015 alongside a deliciously flaky lamb and rosemary pie. Cellaring Potential Whilst dangerously drinkable on release this wine will become deeper, rounder and more complex with careful cellaring over the next five to seven years.