Flying Sheep Pinot Gris 2015

Similar to the Gewurztraminer, Hawkes Bay is able to produce fragrance and weight at lower ripeness levels allowing for wines of balance and character. The definitive Pinot Gris has yet to be produced in NZ, with all regions still in the running. We believe Hawkes Bay can capture the subtlety of great Pinot Gris and do it in a dry, or close to it, style.

Pinot Gris in whichever country or region it’s grown in always poses the same challenge. Flavours come in late in the ripening. How do you make a wine that is balanced, subtle, fresh and vibrant, while at the same time exotic and complex …all with a moderate alcohol. We’d like to see aromas of ripe pear, quince and stone fruit that are complemented with subtle notes of sweet almond and baked apple. It’s only viticulture that will save the day. Managing vines from early in the season to have that kind of flavour and complexity and lower brix than the vine would naturally deliver. We believe that in our site we can deliver wines of real balance and nuance. White paint on a white canvas, subtlety…not non-descript, just subtle.

Winemaker's Notes

Detailed notes: Download PDF