Garagiste Le Stagiaire Pinot Noir 2021

Garagiste Le Stagiaire Pinot Noir is a Mornington Peninsula Pinot Noir split evenly between two vineyards.

Merricks and Balnarring contribute half each here, from vines averaging twenty-five years, rooted in grey loams and red ferrosols, two quite different soils and part of why the blend has more dimension than either site alone. After sorting in the vineyard and at the winery, fermentation started on its own with whole berries and a ten per cent whole-bunch component, no temperature control. Twenty-two days on skins followed, worked with gentle pump-overs and a little plunging towards the end. Élevage ran eight months on gross lees, split between 300-litre hogsheads and foudre, with only five per cent new oak. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Red cherry and cranberry over a savoury, spiced base, with fine tannin and juicy acidity carrying a long finish. Serve at 14 to 15 degrees. Good alongside roast duck, salmon, mushrooms on toast, or a plate of charcuterie and cornichons.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.