MEREKARA WINES GRACE’S SECRET PINOT NOIR 2022

Winery notes (2022 Vintage)
"“Grace’s Secret” refers to the youngest of the family, Grace. After Pinot Noir 2021 being the new generation, the 2022 is again something amazing. Translucent mid cherry-red coloured, lighter at the rim, medium bodied. The nose exhibits aromas of forest floor, cherry and plum, a hint of spice and subtle herb/earthy notes. Ripe dark plum, cherries and red berry fill the palate, a refreshing acidity, silky tannins and a hint of oak spice all nicely integrated, layered and still youthful. A long and tasty dry finish.

The grapes were hand harvested on a cool morning and settled on a cold temperature for 24 hours before the process started; 40% whole bunch press and 60% destemmed, wild fermentation, maturation in barrel for 10 months and gentle fiiltration."

5 Stars & 18.5/20 (93) Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Reviews, March 2023 (2022 Vintage)
"Moderately deep ruby-red, even colour throughout. The nose is softly full, with succulent red cherry, plum, floral aromas and subtle spice. Medium-light bodied, red cherry and plum aromas melded with dark herb, floral and cinnamon. The tannin is supple and lightly textured; whole bunch fermentation contributed floral and herbaceous details. A creamy, earthy tone lingers to a dry, fragranced finish. This Awatere Valley Pinot Noir shows delicate floral, herb and red fruit with a supple, refined palate, exhibiting purity and careful winemaking. Match with lamb koftas and duck over the next 5 years. One bunch per shoot, handpicked, cold settled, wild fermented with 40% whole bunch to 13.5% alc, aged in barrel for 10 months. 696 bottles produced."