New Zealand - Wairarapa Flashcards
Where is Wairarapa located?
Most southerly region of North Island
Most famous Wairarapa sub region?
Martinborough
Reputation of Wairarapa wines?
Premium Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc made with naturally low yields
Climate of Wairarapa?
Cool maritime climate with a large diurnal range.
What natural helps to keep yields low in Wairarapa? (2)
Strong winds from the cool straight in the south affecting flowering and fruit set
Frosts
Soils of Wairarapa? (2)
Wide range but mostly gravel with silt loam and loess
These soils are said to help slow ripening as they warm up slower than rocky soils
Significant producer in Wairarapa?
Ata Rangi
What is unique about Wairarapa Pinot noir grapes? (2)
Small berries with thick skins, said to come from Domaine De La Romanee-Conti (Abel clone)
Higher levels of tannin that other NZ regions
Wairarapa Pinot Noir tasting note? (5)
Med+ acid
Med-med+ tannins
Red cherry and black plum
Oak flavours
Pronounced intensity from low yields
Rainfall in Wairarapa? (2)
800-1000mm
High but not a huge issue due to free draining soils
What is unique about the Abel clone? (4)
- Late budding
- Productive
- Bigger bunches
- Good for Wairarapa as it’s yields are naturally controlled by wind
Sauvignon Blanc reputation in Wairarapa? (5)
- Premium in price
- Lower yields
- Restrained
- Wild yeast and barrel fermentation common for premium wines
- Aging on lees common for premium wines