Vineyard Description

Taylors Pass is a narrow, winding mountain track linking the Wairau and Awatere valleys. The Taylors Pass Vineyard, located in the Awatere Valley, buffers the meandering Awatere River. A warm, stony and rugged terrain characterises this picturesque vineyard. With soil ranging from silty loam over gravels to stony gravels, the vineyard consistently produces intensely aromatic Pinot Gris fruit. The micro-climate of this vineyard is perfect for growing this late ripening variety and together with extensive hand management, controlling yields and vine balance all ensures full ripeness and concentrated hedonistic flavours.

Winemaking

The fruit was hand picked and gently whole bunch pressed, tank fermented then matured on yeast lees with weekly battonage for five months. The wine was minimally fined with one gentle filtration to bottle.

Winemaker's Comment

Revealing fragrant aromas of ripe pear, quince and stone fruit are complemented with subtle notes of sweet spices. Off-dry and Alsatian in style, the palate is rich and full bodied, textured and harmonious.