FFW 2021 Wine Catalogue

NEW WORLD NEWZEALANDANDAUSTRALIA

MEET THE GROWER Akitu CENTRALOTAGO

Akitu is a wine we know very well, having worked with it since its inaugural vintage in 2012. With each year that passes it seems to ascend new heights, and I urge you to experience it! It is owned by a goodmate of mine, whose commitment to the cause and love of wine is second to none. Themeaning of Akitu inMaori is “summit,” and I think this is a very apposite reference to what is clearly one of the greatest wines to come out of this island. Uniquely the A1 Pinot 2016 won all three red winemedals awarded in New Zealand, yet owner AndrewDonaldson remains very modest, and with PJ his winemaker, is simply determined to keep on pushing for even greater heights. This year sees the release of a truly seductive and rare Pinot Noir Blanc. Extraordinary texture and charm. The A1 Pinot is aged 10months in 24% new French oak, giving a gorgeous texture, and in the glass it positively brims with health and vitality. The nose is complex and engaging, yielding black cherry, raspberry, spice, and a tiny hint of vanilla pod. I have to say, the first tasting I had of it I was sure I was in Chambolle-Musigny! It is incrediblymore-ish and the fresh acidity that underpins the perfectly ripe fruit means it is a natural with food and equally pretty damn easy to drink without - you don’t even have to remember your corkscrew as it is under Stelvin! It’s an honour to offer these extraordinary wines.

WA93 POINTS

PINOTNOIRBLANC AKITU, CENTRAL OTAGO 2019 DRINK2020 - 2025

6x75 £149.61

Refined aromatics showing light berry sorbet lift and subtle dried herb notes. Amineral and slatey, floral perfume adding aromatic perfume and complexity. Abundant entry with texture and depth of flavour flowing to a refined and focused finish. Lacy acidity providing structure and persistence.

—PJ CHARTERIS

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