Amisfield Brut Methode Traditionelle 2019

Amisfield Brut Méthode Traditionelle 2019 is an exquisite sparkling wine crafted from handpicked Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, this wine is a testament to the skilled winemakers at Amisfield. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Pisa mountain range, Amisfield is one of the largest single estate vineyards in Central Otago, New Zealand. Founder John Darby was determined to master this breathtaking yet often unforgiving high country, convinced that this dramatic landscape presented the perfect environment for cool-climate viticulture. After an exhaustive search he discovered Amisfield Farm, formerly a merino sheep station. The first vines were planted in 1999 and they continue to thrive. In 2021 Amisfield completed the 5 year process of converting all of their Estate to organic viticulture and were named as Organic Vineyard of the Year 2020 and again in 2022 as part of that process. With a bold form of pure function, Amisfield's modern winery sits harmoniously within its rustic surroundings. The two-storey facility has a 600-tonne production capacity where winemakers conduct their intricate craft then let nature take its course.

Amisfield's simple philosophy is to nurture nature at every step and their hands-off approach means that their process takes time, with their wines yielding exceptional purity, intensity and vibrancy. The Pinot Noir grapes for this Brut are grown on vigorous soils however the cool climate keeps ripening slow and acids high. This makes a perfect combination of attributes for sparkling base. Amisfield estate grown Pinot Noir is handpicked and gently whole bunch pressed to collect very fine, clear free run juice. This is then fermented in stainless steel before malolactic fermentation is allowed to complete. Following this, the wine is bottled for secondary fermentation, and aged on lees for an extended period of time to build complexity.

This refreshing wine shows delicate florals on the nose with mineral purity, matched with toasted brioche on the palate from the time on lees during tirage. A lower dosage balances with the fresh acidity. On the nose, this wine reveals a subtle mix of citrus fruits along with hints of apricot, honey and cashew nut flavours. On the palate, it is rich and complex, with a perfect balance of fine, explosive bubbles. The finish is long, elegant and mouth-cleansing.