2018 Big Bones Pinot Gris - MAGNUM

Twin barrels of direct press Gris from Rob Pooks vineyard out the back of Hahndorf. This is made just like I make Chardonnay – direct pressed and run straight to barrel with full solids then left to its own devices for a natural ferment and long rest on lees untouched. Bottled unsulphured.

The bronze tone to the colour shows its unprotected elevage. The classic “pretty” floral and fruity of notes of commercial Gris are long gone replaced by a slow oxidative transformation of fruit into lightly bruised autumn fruits – quince, apple and heirloom pear – with some orange skinned citrus. Lees derived notes of malt, spice and a little honey add depth. Reminds a little of northern Maconnais Chardonnay at close range. The palate is not classic Gris either. Fresh acidity upfront its distinctly savoury flavours are offset but the weight and texture and all the uglys are left in with the varietal phenolics drying a savoury secondary finish. Gris for Chardonnay drinkers.

1500L - MAGNUM