Errazuriz (Chile) Wild Ferment Pinot Noir 2000
Californian winemaker at Errazuriz, Ed Flaherty, makes his ‘Wild Ferment’ Pinot Noir (and Chardonnay) with traditional Burgundian techniques. Casablanca Valley grapes are hand-harvested, then fermentation takes place using natural yeasts found on the grapes and in the vineyards. The wine is then aged for nine months in French oak barrels. This produces a wine that has both complexity and delicious appeal. The aromas leap from the glass, of tobacco and mocha coffee, new leather and game. There are distinctly violety floral highlights, and a great, solid core of ripe, minty, blackberry fruit. On the palate this rich, juicy, spicy wine has a medium-bodied texture and is packed with sweet fruit; blackberry again, and hints of jammy raspberry all layered with clove, chocolate and fudgy, toasty oak depth. Long and very clean through good supporting acidity and fine tannins, this is joyous Pinot Noir at a great price. Everywine, Sainsbury, Wine Rack, 9.99
