2024 Bryterlater Ernie

Description

Region: North Canterbury

Blend: Pinot Noir Abel Clone

Early harvested from two different sites within the vineyard. One later ripening and one super early. This provides a density of fruit and a bounce of youthful exuberance. Fermented in stainless steel as whole bunch with a layer of destemmed fruit atop the ferment. Pressed after just 10 days and settled in tank before finishing fermentation in barrel.

Ernest Pinot Noir has been a mainstay in the Bryterlater stables since inception in 2019. The wine is 100% Abel clone Pinot Noir from Biogrow Certified The Good Family Vineryard which was planted in the early 90’s by Bellbird Springs Winery. The signature has always been dark and brooding but also lifted carbonic notes from the extended whole bunch maceration of 5 weeks. This year for vintage 2024 I knew there would be enough density in the fruit to produce a light yet concentrated and elegant early release Pinot Noir. The resulting wine will be called Ernie as a homage to my grandfather Ernest. Ernie is 70% whole bunch and 30 % destemmed, spending only 10 days macerating. The result is a wine with delicious texture yet lifted vibrancy. Equally suited for dining and drinking alike.