Pyramid Valley Earth Smoke Pinot Noir 2020

The wines of Pyramid Valley are born in the dramatic soils and slopes of the Waikari Estate in North Canterbury and the Pyramid Valley Mānatu Estate in Central Otago. Established in 2000, by Mike and Claudia Elze Weersing, the estate created remarkable wines, recognised the world over, for close to 20 years.

In 2017 Steve Smith MW (perhaps best known for establishing Craggy Range) and his business partner and wildlife conservationist Brian Sheth took over the estate, and are building on the work done by the Weersings to fulfil the full potential of the site. In 2018 they purchased a second vineyard in Lowburn, Central Otago called Manata Estate, an established vineyard that has produced exceptional Pinot Noir since 2002.

Staying true to the estate’s founding principles, both sites are managed following the principals of biodynamic viticulture and the winemaking follows natural principles.

The vines were densely planted from 2000-2002 on an expansive, east facing slope. Farmed biodynamically from inception the spoils are strong, beautifully structured soils; 25% clay, 15% active lime. Grapes were harvested between 6th and 14th April 2020, then destemmed and fermented with yeasts from the vineyard, gently fermented using infusion methods for 21-27 days. Settled in tank before being transferred to French wooden cuvees and barrel. Elevage of 18 months, then bottled unfined and unfiltered.