Description

ABOUT THE PRODUCER:
The wines of Pyramid Valley are born in the dramatic limestone and clay derived soils and slopes of the estate farm in Waikari, North Canterbury. A unique high-altitude site that is home to some of the most profound Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines in the world. Mike and Claudia Elze Weersing spent 15 years searching the world to find this perfect place, which they finally purchased in 2000. Together, Mike and Claudia created remarkable wines for close to 20 years that have been recognised the world over. Fast-forward to 2017, when good friends Brian Sheth and Steve Smith realised their long-held vision of realising a wine dream together – to craft impeccable wines and inspiring experiences they could share – by purchasing Pyramid Valley. In 2018, Estate Manager and Winemaker Huw Kinch took on the role of guiding the new chapter at Pyramid Valley. The wines are produced from the original vineyards in North Canterbury as well as in Central Otago from the Pyramid Valley Mānatu vineyard, named after the ribbonwood (mānatu) tree. The launch of the 2022 Botanicals collection represents the pinnacle of their achievements at Pyramid Valley. Each wine is named after the common colloquial name of the meadow plant dominant in its respective vineyard block and since their release in 2006 have created a new dimension for fine New Zealand wine, illustrating the incredible impact of this remarkable vineyard on the sense of wine. They are wines that truly breathe of their place.

ABOUT THE VINEYARD:
A blend of four vineyards in Waipara sustainably farmed, free of artificial chemicals or fertilisers: Biogro certified Course-Choi (previously Porters) Vineyard on Mackenzies Rd, the Biogro certified Good Family Vineyard on Georges Rd and the Fraher Vineyard on Omihi Clay soils in North Canterbury, as well as a touch from their Biogro certified Central Otago vineyard in Lowburn.

THE WINEMAKING PROCESS:
Primarily whole bunch fermented for 12 – 24 days in open top fermenters with a small amount of Blanc de Noir pressings added during fermentation. Aged in concrete Tulipes, clay amphora and old barrels for 6 months without SO2 before being bottled unfined and unfiltered.

OUR TASTING NOTES:
Slightly hazy orange hue. Lifted complex nose of spices and florals – almost campari like. An explosion of flavour hits your mouth with Christmas spices and orange rind, soft fine tannins coat the mouth leaving a savoury and moreish finish. A great match with aromatic dishes.

GRAPE VARIETY:
Pinot Gris 80%, Sauvignon Blanc 11%, Riesling 7%, Gewürztraminer 1%, Muscat 1%.