“I don’t want a big fruit bomb nor a dark wine with blocky oak tannin. I want delicacy and subtle memory that is balanced with fine aromatic foods of flavour”
- James Millton

‘La Cote’ is a section of the Clos de Ste Anne vineyard, situated on steep northeast facing slopes in the foothills of Poverty Bay. ‘La Cote’ is home to a collection of modern Pinot Noir clones and like all the Millton vineyards is dry farmed and has been cultivated biodynamically since 1989.

James Millton looks to the old world for inspiration with Pinot Noir. “I don’t want a big fruit bomb, nor a dark wine with blocky oak tannin. I want delicacy and a subtle memory that is balanced with fine aromatic foods of flavour” he states.

A selection of specific slopes and planting comprise our decision as to where to source the fruit from for this wine. The soils comprise dense clay over sandstone, including the surrounding manuka scrubs nearby, giving fruit of smallish bunches and moderate vigour. The grapes are harvested by hand, chilled and sorted and de-stemmed uncrushed into small wooden cuves for a prolonged fermentation using only natural yeasts. Pressing takes place after one lunar phase.

A bright fruited, expressive nose with notes of dark cherry, juniper berry and a honeyed aromatic hint of fennel intrigue the nose. There is a savoury taste with firm tannins and ripe fruit finishing with a lively mineral edge to balance. Unfined and unfiltered, expect a little sediment to accumulate with age. Decant to your favourite glassware and enjoy, with friends, lamb and other fine grilled pieces.

Cellaring potential is five years plus. The wine improves after several days exposed to air. Suitable for vegetarian and vegan consumption.

Produced and bottled on the property. Wine from BioGro Certified Organic and Demeter Certified Biodynamic Grapes.

Total acidity:6.50g/l
pH: 3.75
Alcohol: 14.0% Vol
Residual Sugar: 1.7 g/l
Harvested on: 12th March 2014
Bottled on: 25th June 2015
Released on: 1st August 2015