Eminence Pinot Meunier

Pinot meunier is a clone of pinot noir and so shares many of the same characteristics: light-bodied, low tannin and plenty of red fruit flavours - which are juxtaposed against an earthy, savoury backdrop. Where meunier differs is tricky to pinpoint but for us here on this site, there's a meaty, smoky, dusty aspect to the flavour and generosity to the acid structure that is both beguiling and inviting. This wine is a great example of that. Texturally, it's tightly wound, with a punchy acid framework and very fine tannin. The fruit flavours are reminiscent of pomegranate and blood plum, with an appealing kick of a bresaola-like meatiness on the palate. It's a light-bodied wine but has real presence and character.

This fruit was handpicked from our organic trial block, which gets all the extra attention, including leaf and bunch removal. The grapes were destemmed and lightly crushed, cold soaked for a few days then fermented in a mix of small open fermenters. Over 30 days on skins, the must was gently hand plunged or pumped over twice a day to keep the cap in contact with the juice. After pressing, the wine was aged in old barriques for 11 months on full solids. Racked into tank to settle, it was bottled a week later. No additions or adjustments other than sulphur. 110 dozen produced