Carrick Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2019

This wine is an integral part of what we do and a wine that we feel represents the strong connection we have with our land. The fruit comes from a parcel of vines which are entirely grown on their own roots and are the oldest vines we have on the property, planted in 1994. All fruit is hand-picked and fermented using natural yeasts, in small open top fermenters and ages in barrel for 9 months, with 17% new oak used. Each barrel is checked and tasted before blending and remains in tank over harvest, giving it time to unify.

Central Otago is semi-continental and surrounded by mountains. The hot, dry Cairnmuir Terraces, on which Carrick’s vines are planted, are dry, semi-arid and wind-swept. The combination of our soils and semi-arid climate result in low yielding vines, which capture the special essence and vibrancy of Central Otago.

WHEN Carrick was planted, the land was home to a few merinos, rabbits, thyme and lichens. Today our 24ha of vines are certified Organic through Biogro and our company is certified Sustainable by SWNZ.

Endeavouring to create biodiversity and sustainability on our site we have a native plant nursery, use only wild yeast, grow herbs and vegetables for our restaurant, plant vineyard cover crops, compost organic materials, and recycle packaging and waste.

The nutrition of our vines is supplemented by our own organic composts, and careful use of natural products such as seaweed. Pruning, leaf plucking, shoot and bunch thinning, are all carried out manually, by a small team of dedicated employees. Grapes are harvested by hand, allowing any unripe or inferior fruit to be left behind.

9 months in barrel, 17% new.