Felton Road

Owner, Nigel Greening along with Winemaker Blair Walters and viticulturist Gareth King have established Felton Road into one of the world’s iconic producers of Pinot Noir. Writer James Suckling goes as far as describing Felton Road as the “DRC of New Zealand”. Beginning with meticulous site selection and vineyard design which started in 1991, Felton Road's story is one of refusal to compromise. A strict 100% estate policy with fully organic and biodynamic viticulture (demeter certified) ensures that fruit arrives at the winery as pure as it can be, while the entire estate comes as close to true sustainability as is possible. A commitment to hands off winemaking: gravity flow, wild yeasts, wild malo, an avoidance of fining and filtration all help preserve the wine's expression of its terroir. The result is Riesling, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir which accurately express the authenticity and complexity of these unique vineyards.

Inviting aromas of white blossom, delicate peach and hints of citrus. Nutty and complex flavours on the palate. 16 months in barrel but with no new oak ensures the emphasis is on site expression. A long, and mineral finish reflect the deep schist soils of Block 2.

This wine pairs best with lighter meats and buttery dishes such as Crab Legs, Corn on the Cob, Chicken Alfredo, Grilled Shrimp, Pork Tenderloin or a mushroom pasta

Mendoza clone Chardonnay from Block 2 was whole bunch pressed, settled overnight and flowed by gravity to barrel in the underground cellar. Fermentation with indigenous yeasts in seasoned French oak (no new oak) was followed by a long and complete malolactic over the spring and summer. After 17 months in barrel (11 months on gross lees), the wine was carefully racked to tank for bottling in early-September 2021. The wine was not fined or filtered

The Real Review Bob Campbell MW August 2020 95/100