Pinot Noir
75cl * 14% ABV * Waipara Valley, New Zealand
Prima Donna is only made in exceptional years, provided it does not compromise the quality of the estate wines. It is a selection from the best barrels, coming from some of the oldest ungrafted plantings in the vineyard, characterised by small berries and loose open bunches. As with all Pegasus Bay's Pinot Noir, traditional Burgundian winemaking methods are used. Approximately 40% of the grapes were put at the bottom of the fermentation vats as whole bunches, with the balance being destemmed on top, retaining as many whole berries as possible. The vats were kept cool over the next few days to help
extract the soft, silky tannins from the pinot noir skins. After approx a week, the must started to ferment naturally. During fermentation the skins of the grapes were gently plunged twice daily. When the fermentation finished, the grape remnants were left to steep in the wine for up to a week to help extract a different range of tannins that add structure and depth. The exact duration of this period was determined by daily tasting. Subsequently the wine was gently pressed off and put into oak barriques (approx 40% new) from selected artisan Burgundian coopers. In the summer after harvest, when the weather warmed, the wine underwent a natural malo-lactic (secondary) fermentation. After maturing for 14 months, a selection from the best barriques was chosen and careful
This wine has a deep ruby hue. The nose is a sultry amalgam of spiced plum, red currant and dark cherry, leading to a savoury underlay of earth, leather, cinnamon, mushroom and crushed thyme. Fine grained tannins and a concentrated core of ripe fruit thrill the palate, presenting a luxurious mouthfeel. Well integrated acidity adds perfect balance and poise, setting the platform for a long and harmonious close. This is a wine with real power and drive, yet delivered with precision and finesse. While ready to drink on release it can be expected to cellar well and evolve gracefully for many years.