Wine of The Month
Tamar Ridge Kayena Vineyard Pinot Noir 2007
Very attractive ripe fruit aromas with hints of mulberry and bramble berry, a touch of rich fruit cake and a dusting of cinnamon spice. This is backed up by some smoky oak providing additional complexity.
Ripe up-front fruit flavours of strawberries and red currants with just a dash of more meaty flavours. This intensity of ripe fruit gives round mouthfilling flavours leading to a long gentle finish with fine, silky tannins and excellent length and persistence. Maturation in French oak barriques is showing through with subtle spiciness and just a little extra grip on the palate without in any way dominating the wine. The overall impression is a satisfying level of flavour with great balance and softness.
Fruit was destemmed and left to macerate for several days prior to ferment. Fermentation then took place in open fermenters with regular plunging. Once dry, the ferment was pressed off to barrel using a basket press. Malolactic fermentation and maturation took place over 12 months in a combination of new to 3 year old French oak barriques.
This is a full-flavoured and generous style of Pinot Noir that is enjoyable now but also has the flavour and balance to continue to improve in bottle for another 4 to 5 years.
The classic food match with Pinot Noir is always duck. Try it with a simple Roast Duckling or a duck confit. Would also team well with the rich flavours of a cassoulet.