Burn Cottage Pinot Noir 2021

Description

“One of Central Otago’s top producers” Bob Campbell – Master of Wine

Chicago wine importer Marquis Savage fell in love with Central Otago on what was meant to be a quick tour of the region. Falling in love meant purchasing 24 hectares in the Cromwell basin, which were subsequently planted with clones specific to soil type and in accordance with biodynamic principles. Enlisted to help in this task was Ted Lemon of Littorai, who brought with him more than three decades of practical knowledge of terroir winegrowing based on experience in Burgundy, California and Oregon. Born-and-bred Central Otago talent Claire Mullholland, formerly of Martinborough Vineyards and Amisfield, takes charge of the winemaking, realising the bright, lively, profound potential of these vineyards year in, year out. Biodynamic producer.

Originally from Central Otago, following university Claire worked in the pioneering vineyards of this region such as Rippon, Chard Farm and Gibbston Valley. Ensuing vintages abroad were focussed on building up an international picture of Pinot Noir, working in Australia, Oregon and France, including Burgundy’s Cote de Nuit at Domaine De L’Arlot and Domaine Dujac. Significant New Zealand winegrowing experience included roles as head winemaker at Martinborough Vineyard and Amisfield, before joining Burn Cottage Vineyard.

“If you crave thoroughly pure, complex, and lavish Pinot Noirs, Burn Cottage’s flagship estate bottling will put you in a blissful stupor. Aside from full-on biodynamics in the vineyard and a scrupulous cellar regimen that would cause a number of Burgundian old-timers to take copious notes, these Pinot Noirs are currently equipped with some of the most doting and consistently high praise of contemporary times”. Ian Cauble – Master Sommelier

The original Burn Cottage Vineyard in Lowburn is a patchwork of blocks that was strategically planned out with the aim of matching clone and rootstock to soil, aspect and exposure. Significant diversity of clones (114, 115, 777, Abel, Cl 5,10/5, MV6,828,667) of Pinot Noir vines are planted (high density) following biodynamic viticulture on the North and North East facing slopes that no doubt contribute to the extraordinary complexity displayed of their fine wine.  Today, the original Burn Cottage Vineyard is complimented by the addition of the 5.8 Ha Sauvage vineyard that the family purchased in the Bannockburn subregion, just off the famed Felton Road, in late 2017. After the purchase the team immediately set about converting the vineyard to biodynamics and released the first wine from the site, that was originally planted in 1999.

Small batch minimal intervention winemaking, meticulous attention to detail in blending and composition of final blend produce vibrant, tensile and fresh style avoiding temptation to wrap up fruit in upfront oak and to let the site shine.

About the 2021 vintage from the winemaker “In general, we had a very warm dry spring, although a little frost fighting was required during some colder weather systems. Changeable weather also affected flowering in some blocks and resulted in smaller crops. We experienced a high diurnal range with low overnight temperatures through much of the season, and significantly we received a third of our annual rainfall in January. From February conditions settled, with favourably warm and dry weather returning through to harvest.

“Enticing lifted floral notes with blue and red fruits, hints of pepper spice and orange zest accompany the characteristic wet stone and mineral elements from this vineyard. Supple and seamless with lovely palate length and structural tannins framing the wine. Enjoyable over the coming years, this wine will also reward cellaring to 10-12 years.”  Claire Mulholland

96 points, Erin Larkin, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate “The 2021 Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir is alive and energetic, svelte and composed. As I write this, I am sitting at the bottom of the Burn Cottage Vineyard in Lowburn, looking up the rows. This is a mineral, nuanced expression, with graphite and white tea, pomegranate pearls, raspberry licorice, rosehips and crushed pink peppercorns. This is what I came here for. It’s thrilling, lacy, delicate and focused. Exciting wine, exciting drinking. It sits on the palate nicely—evenly weighted, and it spools through the long finish… yes! 13.5% alcohol, sealed under natural cork. Drink 2023 – 2036.”

94 points, James Suckling “Baked strawberries, pomelo zest and potpourri with underlying sweet spices of red licorice and ground cloves. Medium-bodied, finely-grained silky tannins with refreshing acidity. A hint of tomato leaf notes at the end. Zesty and flavorsome.”

RRP $114   Our Price $99.99 

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