International Pinot Noir Day on 18th August 2019 is the perfect day to celebrate NZ's top red wine variety.
Dunnolly Estate was an early Pioneer in Waipara Valley. In 1995 – Waipara wasn’t even its own region, all vineyards were categorised as Canterbury. The total NZ production of Pinot Noir in the 1995 was a mere 4,480T. In 2019, New Zealand produced 26,944T of Pinot Noir. The industry has most certainly grown up.
Clonal selection or availability in the early days is not like they are now. Clone 10/5 was chosen by Matt our son, as it can make a fabulous Pinot Noir by itself or the fruit could be used to make beautiful Methode Traditionelle. Either way, Felicity & I were determined to grow the best Pinot Noir possible. In 2000, we extended our Pinot Noir production and planted another hectare of clone 777 Pinot Noir. The 777 gives our wines it’s youth and vibrancy that blends well with our 10/5 which add depth and character to our wine.
Peter Parish
