Crittenden Estate 2008 Pinot Grigio

Fruit

The grapes for this wine have been supplied by two small and highly regarded growers on the Mornington Peninsula. One is based in the cool higher altitude of Red Hill and the other in the slighly warmer lower plains of Tuerong.

Harvest

Both portions of fruit were hand harvested with dates and analysis as follows:

Red Hill: 20 March 2008, Be 12.75, pH 3.41, TA 8.48

Tuerong: 4 March 2008, Be 12.70, pH 3.45, TA 6.60

Winemaking

The hand harvested grapes were transferred straight to the Bucher air bag press and gently whole bunch pressed to limit colour pick up from the grape skins. The settled juice was rough racked to a refrigerated tank and the ferment commenced by inoculation with a yeast chosen for its ability to impart "Pinot Grigio" as distinct from Pinot Gris characteristics. A portion of the fermenting juice was pumped to 220 Litre barriques to add some complexity and allow lees stirring once dry; this portion was blended back to the main batch prior to bottling. The main aim of the ferment and juice handling was to enhance the "Grigio" style and give hay and honeysuckle hints so typical of the Italian counterparts. 

Bottling

Late July 2008.
Sealed under screw cap.

Technical information

Alc. Vol. 13.0%

Residual sugar: .56 gms/litre (dry)

Ph: 3.29

Total acidity: 6.3gms/litre

Tasting Notes

This wine shows all the classic "Grigio" characteristics both on the nose and in the mouth. Its vibrant yet savoury aromatics of honeysuckle and fresh cut hay are matched seamlessly on the palate by textural flavours of pears and lemon juice. Although this wine will undoubtedly drink well for 3 to 4 years we recommend it is enjoyed sooner rather than later. 

Cellaring

This wine will drink at its best within three years of its release.