Region and Vineyards
The Marlborough region of New Zealand, particularly renowned for its Sauvignon Blanc, also excels in producing exceptional Pinot Noir. Dog Point's vineyards are located in Marlborough's home vineyards, Settlement, and Yarrum, primarily on hill slopes, which provide optimal growing conditions for Pinot Noir. The soils here are predominantly clay loams, contributing to the rich and concentrated flavors of the wine.
Dog Point’s vineyards include some of the oldest vines in the region, with plantings dating back to 1983. The vineyard management practices are certified organic, emphasizing dry farming, no tillage, total grassing with mulch management, and avoiding synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. This commitment to sustainability and low yields of 3.2 tonnes per hectare ensures the production of high-quality grapes.
Winemaking
The Dog Point Pinot Noir is crafted from 100% Pinot Noir. The grapes are hand-picked and chilled overnight before hand-sorting. The winemaking process includes 70% destemming and 30% whole bunch inclusion, followed by fermentation in small stainless steel open-top fermenters with 100% indigenous yeasts. This fermentation lasts for approximately three weeks, ensuring maximum extraction of color and flavor.
The wine undergoes 18 months of aging in French oak barrels, with 30% of the barrels being new oak. This aging process enhances the wine’s complexity and allows for the development of subtle oak characteristics that complement the primary fruit flavors. The final wine has an alcohol content of 13.5%, with an acidity of 5.5 g/L and a pH of 3.65.
Did you know?
Dog Point Vineyard has a rich history dating back to the earliest European settlement of Marlborough, where the introduction of sheep (and sheep dogs) gave the area its name. This heritage is reflected in the winery's name and its commitment to traditional, hands-on winemaking techniques that distinguish its wines on the global stage.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep ruby.
- Aroma: Dark and brooding aromas of doris plum, baking spices, brambles, dried herbal notes, and musky florals of old-fashioned roses.
- Palate: Bold, dark fruits lead the palate, with an energy and drive that offers great enjoyment. The wine features freshness from its acidity and supple, fine-grained tannins. This powerful and concentrated expression promises further rewards with cellaring.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Roast Duck with Plum Sauce: The rich, gamey flavor of roast duck pairs beautifully with the dark fruit and spice notes of the Pinot Noir, while the plum sauce enhances its plum and herbal aromas.
- Mushroom Risotto: The earthy flavors of mushrooms complement the wine's brooding aromas and complex palate, making for a harmonious pairing.
- Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Thyme: The savory herbs and tender lamb highlight the wine’s fine-grained tannins and dark fruit character, creating a balanced and satisfying match.
- Beetroot and Goat Cheese Salad: The sweetness of the beetroot and the tangy goat cheese bring out the wine’s fruit and floral notes, offering a fresh and vibrant pairing.
