Catalina Sounds Pinot Noir 2022

WINEMAKER COMMENTS

The 21/22 season is one for the books. Winter rains replenished parched soils and broke a three-year drought. A warm and wet winter continued into spring, bringing lush growth to the vines, a perfect flowering and an abundance of fruit. January was warm and dry, and decisions to reduce yields on all our Pinot Noir ensured quality was the driver. This was beneficial as February saw a significant rain event, followed by cool weather, slowing ripening and retaining acids. March was near perfect weather wise, allowing ‘hang time’ for the fruit to ripen and develop flavour. Individual parcels were picked over 14 days from the 15th to 29th March. Ruby red in colour, with a youthful brightness. Layered aromas of cassis, earthy spices, black tea, fresh toast and ripe plums give lead to the palate with finely powdered tannins, juicy red cherries and fleshy plum texture that finishes long with notes of dried cranberry and black tea. Matt Ward