Scordatura Octa 2021
Experimental Design / Unique Feature
This wine explores the expression of lower slope schist and quartz over clay through a blend of separate fermentations:
Blend of three separate ferments from the lower slopes
Moderate whole bunch inclusion (21%)
Extended skin contact (21 days)
Higher new oak influence (33%) for maturation
Vineyard Source
Mount Pisa Vineyard, Central Otago ● Selected parcels from the lower slopes of the vineyard with schist and quartz over clay base
Grape Variety
100% Pinot Noir, Clones 115 and Abel
Vintage Notes
The 2021 Octa draws from the lower slopes of the vineyard, where schist and quartz overlay a clay base. This unique soil composition contributes to a wine of brightness and purity, with a seamless structure that reflects its complex terroir.
Technical Information (at harvest)
● Brix: 23.3 (weighted average) ● pH: 3.14 ● Total Acidity: 8.0 g/L
Winemaking Details
● Harvest Date: 1st April ● Yield: 3.3 t/ha ● Fermentation: ○ Blend of three separate ferments from the lower slopes ○ 21% whole bunch inclusion ○ 21 days on skins ● Pressing was small batch, either direct to barrel or with one night's settling before barreling down ● Malolactic fermentation completed in barrel ● Maturation occurred in French oak barrels (33% new oak)
Technical Information (post bottling)
● Alcohol: 13.5% ● pH: 3.74 ● Total Acidity: 5.4 g/L ● Volume: 764 Bottles
Reflection
Scordatura Octa 2021 embodies the unique interpretation of our Mount Pisa vineyard's lower slopes, where schist and quartz overlay clay. The blend of three separate ferments has resulted in a wine that is bright and pure, with a seamless structure and flowing character. This wine showcases the complexity of its terroir, offering a rounded, fluid expression of Pinot Noir, highlighting the interplay between fruit brightness and subtle oak polish.