Grape Variety: 74% Pinot Noir, 26% Chardonnay

Growing Region: Central Otago, New Zealand

Head Winemaker: Matt Connell

TASTING NOTE:
Crafted from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay sourced from several blocks on their estate vineyards. Each parcel was hand harvested and whole bunch pressed with each batch being kept separate. The pressed juice parcels then settled and were racked off to ferment dry at a cool temperature in a combination of old oak barriques and stainless steel tanks.

For this Rose Methode, one Pinot Noir parcel of fruit was fermented on its skins to produce a red coloured base wine for inclusion in the blend. Once malolactic fermentation was complete the base wines, together with up to 15% of reserve wine that had been aged for several years in old French oak barrels were blended to produce the Akarua Rose NV. The red base wine that gives this Rose its distinctive pink colour comprises about 10% of the final blend.

The blended base wines were transferred to bottle with yeast and a precise amount of sugar to undergo the secondary fermentation. Being aged for approximately 24 months on yeast in bottle before - hand riddling, disgorging and labelling.

As you pour this sparkling rose into your glass - you are greeted with a vibrant pink colour with a red hue. The aroma shows hints of strawberry as well as numerous blanched nut characters and subtle floral notes. The Pinot Noir component has a strong influence on the palate, which has lively crisp red fruit flavours balanced by bright acidity creating a lingering, savoury, dry finish. Chill and serve at 7-8C.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking perfectly well this summer season; and if patient for another 18-24 months.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match as an aperitif, prawns, sushi and also red fruit desserts, enjoy.

A vibrant Methode Rose NV with character.