Harewood Estate F BLOCK Pinot Noir

Harewood Estate F Block Pinot Noir: A Celebration of Cool-Climate Finesse

The Harewood Estate F Block Pinot Noir is a captivating expression of the potential for Pinot Noir in the dynamic Great Southern region of Western Australia. Hailing from Denmark, a coastal town blessed with cool maritime breezes and pristine soils, this wine showcases the meticulous viticulture and winemaking practices employed by Harewood Estate.

Vineyard and Vinification:

The F Block, the source of this Pinot Noir, occupies a north-facing slope bathed in ample sunlight. The gravely karri loam soils, characterised by their excellent drainage, are ideally suited to cultivating Pinot Noir grapes. The vines, meticulously planted with a selection of Dijon clones – 114, 115, and 777 – renowned for their ability to produce wines of exceptional finesse and complexity, are dry-grown, further concentrating the flavours in the grapes.

Following meticulous hand-harvesting, the grapes undergo a gentle destemming process before vinification. The wine ferments in small batches, allowing for maximum expression of the fruit character. Notably, the wine is matured in a combination of new and seasoned French oak barriques for 12 months. This ageing process imparts subtle layers of spice and structure, complementing the inherent elegance of the cool-climate fruit.

Crucially, the Harewood Estate F Block Pinot Noir is bottled unfined and unfiltered. This philosophy preserves the wine's natural complexity and delicate nuances, a hallmark of cool-climate Pinot Noir.

Tasting Profile:

The Harewood Estate F Block Pinot Noir greets the eye with a light crimson hue, accented by alluring hints of purple. The first swirl of the glass releases an enticing bouquet of aromas. Ripe black cherry takes centre stage, interwoven with notes of dark plum and wild berries. Hints of liquorice and baking spice add a touch of complexity, hinting at the subtle influence of the oak ageing.

The palate is greeted by a burst of vibrant fruit flavours, mirroring the aromas on the nose. Blackberries and ripe plums dominate the initial impression, unfolding further to reveal intriguing notes of aniseed and earth. The wine boasts a lively acidity, characteristic of cool-climate Pinot Noir, which enlivens the palate and ensures a refreshing finish. The tannins are present yet fine-grained, leaving a lingering sensation of elegance and structure.

Food Pairing:

The Harewood Estate F Block Pinot Noir is a versatile food pairing companion. Its vibrant acidity and subtle oak influence make it a natural match for a variety of dishes. Consider pairing this Pinot Noir with roasted duck, pan-seared salmon with a creamy truffle sauce, or herb-marinated grilled lamb chops. For a vegetarian option, try pairing the wine with earthy mushroom risotto or roasted root vegetables with a balsamic glaze.

Conclusion:

The Harewood Estate F Block Pinot Noir stands out as a compelling example of exceptional cool-climate Pinot Noir from Western Australia. The meticulous attention to detail in the vineyard and winery translates into a wine that is both elegant and expressive. With its captivating aromas, vibrant fruit flavours, and balanced structure, the Harewood Estate F Block Pinot Noir is sure to impress even the most discerning Pinot Noir aficionado.