Sanctuary Pinot Noir 2004

Philosophy

Sanctuary’s brand symbol, the pukeko, is a vibrant and lively bird with a distinctive, cheeky personality. At our Waihopai Valley vineyard, the pukeko has made its home amongst the indigenous plants and wildlife of our treasured wetland. Like the pukeko, Sanctuary wines have energy,
character and flair. Ideal for immediate enjoyment, they are wines that offer excellent value in an approachable style.

Winemakers Notes

Sanctuary Pinot Noir is made in a soft, fruit-led style designed for easy drinking.
Bouquet: Rich bouquet of dark cherries and dark chocolate, with hints of french oak
Palate: Generous fruit on the palate including summer fruit. Well balanced with attractive tannin structure and oak influence.

Viticulture

Harvest dates: 14 April - 8 May 2004
Harvesting: Machine harvested
Yield: Low to moderate
Average brix at harvest: 25.4
Sites: Marlborough’s Wairau, Waihopai and 17 Valley

Vinification

The grapes for this wine underwent stainless steel fermentation on skins, with a regular pump-over regime. After pressing, malolactic fermentation was completed in tank before the wine was allowed to mature in French oak barriques and puncheons. A wide selection of barrel age and cooper has added to the wine’s complexity and palate structure.

Cooperage: A range of older barrels
Total time in barrel: 12 months
Bottled: October 2005
Released: October 2005
Alcohol: 14.0%
pH: 3.55
Titratable Acid: 6.1 g/L
Residual Sugar: 2.5 g/L
Style: Dry

Food Matches

An excellent accompaniment to game and lighter meats including pork, rabbit, lamb and duck. Also compliments mushroom dishes.

Cellaring

This wine is excellent drinking now, but it will also reward up to three years cellaring.

Awards

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