Rowland Wines

1998 JILL'S VINEYARD PINOT NOIR El Niño– weather as ordered! The cool season resulted in early snowfall on the surrounding slopes and increased our vigilance of frost fighting prior to harvest. Twenty minutes from Jill’s Vineyard are the local ski slopes. A great diversion while waiting for the harvest of 1998. A cool summer, was followed by a mild-to-warm ripening period. Harvest occurred at the same time as 1997– late. Fortunately I’m a patient kind of guy when it comes to my harvest preferences. A late harvest usually means extra flavor and color due to the additional hang time. The benefit from this was a preservation of the unique and delicate Central Otago spice. A character that is so easily cooked out in warmer climate Pinot Noir. The warm ripening period developed fruit aromas of blackberries, raspberries highlighted by the desirable regional spice tones. The long mouth feel is generous presenting black cherry flavors. If this is the trait of an El Niño season then I hope it becomes a more frequent occurrence... Viva El Niño! Notes and Stats Style: Accadian Harvested: 2.25 ton/acre @ 32F 10 AM Yeast: 50% Wild yeast, 50% cultivated Rhone Valley yeast. Time on Skins: Cold Maceration 10 days, 28 days total Fermentation Type: 50% Whole berry, 50% whole cluster. Cooperage: 100% French Oak; 50% new, 50% 1-2 year old Clarification: Lightly fined, unfiltered Vineyard Location: 100 % Jill's Vineyard, New Zealand - Central Otago     Winemakers Notes: Deeply colored, bright bouquet, spicy with blackberry and raspberry fruits. On the palate, a flavorful melange of ripe berry and cherry flavors highlighted by cinnamon and ginger spices with excellent length. Back to Releases page... Also be sure to learn about...