The Zumma 2007 Pinot Noir (single vineyard)

Fruit

Grapes for this wine were grown at our property at 25 Harrisons Rd Dromana (The Zumma Vineyard) - proudly planted and tended to by the Crittenden family since 1982. The clones are 114 and 115, MV6, D2V5 and D5V12. This is a single vineyard, Mornington Peninsula wine. 

Winemaking

The grapes were hand harvested and immediately destemmed to small open fermenters without pumping or crushing, after which the fermenters were placed in a cold room at 4 degrees Celcius for 24 hours. A protective CO2 cover was maintained and the must was "cold soaked" for five days prior to ferment to enhance aromatics, tannin structure and colour. Once the fermenters had warmed to ambient temperatures the fermentation process was allowed to commence with wild yeast. Each fermenter was hand plunged three times per day during the peak of the ferment while temperatures were limited to 32 degrees Celcius to help retain aromatics.

Once pressed, the resulting wines were allowed to settle in tank briefly before being racked to a combination of new and recently used tight grain, medium toast French Barriques from the Troncais region. After natural malolactic fermentation and 15 months barrel age each of the individual clonal batches were blended in tank before a final racking and bottling without finish or filtration. The Zumma Pinot has been aged in bottle for eight months prior to release.

Bottling

July 2008. Sealed under screw cap.

Technical information

Alc. Vol. 13.0%

Residual sugar: dry

Ph: 3.46

Total acidity: 6.83gms/litre

Tasting Notes

Inspiration for this wine has been drawn from the great wines of Burgundy, many of which show a level of elegance and restraint that is seldom seen in new world Pinot Noir. Accordingly, The Zumma Pinot has an alcohol level at the lower end of the usual spectrum and the colour is perhaps lighter than may be expected, however, it does possess a depth of flavour and a finesse that belies its appearance. Cherries, berry fruits and characters of fresh spice are abundant on the nose, while fine silky tannins, restrained oak and taut acidity provide the palate with great length and balance. We feel that this wine possesses a quality that truly reflects our long term dedication both in the vineyard and the winery and will certainly reward those who are patient.  

Cellaring

5-7 years. If possible decant prior to pouring.