Rob Hall Harriet's Vineyard Pinot Noir

Way back in 1996 we planted a small vineyard at my folks place, 4 acres each of Pinot and Chardonnay. Until recently the fruit had been sold to larger wineries. In recent years the vines have been reaching a more mature balance, their youthful vigour has tamed and they're starting to produce more concentrated wines. With increased attention to detail in the vineyard this will only improve. The vineyard has never had a name as such, it has been referred to as Hall Vineyard or Pine Ave Vineyard. From the start mum took on the bulk of the hands on work, so when I needed to name the vineyard for my single vineyard wines Harriet's Vineyard seemed appropriate.

'The vineyard is managed in sections, some areas being quite vigorous, while others less so. These areas are picked separately to create different batches in the winery. In the winery a variety of fermentation techniques are used, to create options for this blend. A batch that underwent extended maceration under ended up being the predominant component in the blend, giving a savoury and structured backbone to the wine. A small batch of 100% whole bunch ferment adds complexity to the aroma and chalky tannins to the finish. The nose has quite complex aromas, dark fruits, fig, red apple, some cola spice. The palate is savoury, complex and structured; it will cellar very well.' Rob Hall, Winemaker