Akitu A1 Magnum Pinot Noir 2017

2017

£126.00

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Moderate intensity ruby to the edge with a purplish hue giving density. Lifted spice and aromatic wild herbs infused through brambly fruit. The whole- bunch complexity is quite powerful but the integration with the primary fruit that will follow has commenced beautifully. Depth, intensity and an alluring hint of anise and licorice add dimension and intrigue to the aromatic profile. After an hour in the glass or decanter the layers of florals, particularly dark rose petal, unfurl. Plush and gracious with very fine velvety tannins wrapped in abundant rich cherry and plum fruit. Silky with a weighty mid-palate from where the spice and subtle graphite build to leave a savoury exit with a theatrical sparkle of fruit. Great composure and polish balanced on broad shoulders.

Why we love it: It’s a magnum of our bestseller, how can we not?
Drink with: Friends and family
TECH
Sub-Region
Wanaka
Vintage
2017
Blend Info.
100% Pinot Noir
Alcohol by Vol.
14%
Bottle Vol.
1500ml
Serving Temp.
7-12°
Closure
Screwcap
Drink
Now - 2030

WINE PRODUCER

Established in 2001 and dedicated solely to producing Pinot Noir, we believe ‘Akitu’ has been a pioneer in setting the standards for some of the most opulent, exciting and impressive Pinots New Zealand has ever seen.

Founded by Central Otago local Andrew Donaldson, the vineyard boasts a humble 12-hectare lot 380-metres above sea level on a stunning, north facing slope in Central Otago’s Upper Clutha basin. There are over 40,000 vines of 6 carefully selected clones planted across the vineyard, each in a place picked specifically based on it’s soil and aspect.

What does Akitu Mean?

The word ‘Akitu’ is a Maori word that means the apex, or highest point of a mountain. This name was chosen not only because it embodied the area in which the wines were produced, but because it’s a representation of the calibre of the wine inside the bottle. It means ‘Akitu’ strives for excellence, the best, the pinnacle of quality, and we can’t help but agree they have achieved this in every way. If you ever get the chance to visit the winery take a close look at the surrounding mountain ranges, you will see that the font of the logo reflects perfectly against the silhouette of the mountains.

Wine Production

‘Akitu’ only produces two wines. The first of the wines is known as ‘A1’ which is made with the majority of Abel clones. It is aged in 25% French new oak and results in a prestigious, elegant, and precise Pinot Noir that commands your attention. The second is the ‘A2’ which is made with younger vines and boasts generous and juicy fruit flavours. This wine is playful, vibrant and expressive and a true testament to viticulturist Steve Blackmore, who has been tending to the ‘Akitu’ vines for more than a decade now and is proof that patience and Pinot are great partners.

For more information on Akitu and their wines, you can visit their website here.

WINE REGION

The Central Otago Wine Region

Found at the extreme limits of winemaking, Central Otago is found at 44° and 45° south and is home to some of the most southerly vineyards the world has to offer. Boasting breathtaking landscapes and an extreme climate, the local economy has garnered global recognition for its merino wool. However, over the previous decade, the majority of land has been shifted away from pasture, to being under vine.

Find out more information on the Central Otago Wine Region here.

Central Otago Wine Region’s History

In 1996 Otago only had 11 vineyards, while today the region has a legion over 100 strong. The incredibly balanced styles of wine that flow from the region aren’t something to be missed. Central Otago wine region is the first in the world to challenge Burgundy’s production of Pinot Noir.

Wine Sub-Regions

Central Otago’s four primary sub-regions are Wanaka, Gibbston, Bannockburn and Alexandra. While all are situated relatively close together and each has the same stony free-draining soil base, their full profiles vary immensely. However, they are glacially derived and have rich deposits of mica and schist making it ideal for the production of Pinot Noir, which just happens to be 80% of the production there.

Growing Conditions

The excellent drainage helps retain mineral richness whilst temperatures can vary from 30degrees during ripening days to only 8degrees overnight. This swift shift allows the grape ripening process to stop more suddenly overnight, thus retaining all the wonderful natural acidity and fruit concentration this region can offer. To us this provides Central Otago with an intensely fruit-forward character no other region of New Zealand can replicate. Autumn frosts are a risk here too, so it’s just as well the growers down here have their wits about them…

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Closed, for now

Specialist Cellars has paused its virtual doors for now. We’re still open and operating at our Pop Brixton store this Summer. You can also visit us 7 days a week at The Laundry Restaurant for sublime food, wine and coffee @brixtonlaundry.

Any outstanding vouchers can be redeemed at The Laundry or Pop Brixton store. Sadly we can no longer redeem these online.

Any queries contact melanie@heist-group.com

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