Pinot Noir Blanc, Akitu 2021

This has a lot of impact, and it’s at the same time nicely delicate – very sophisticated, the result of spot-on winemaking. If we think of it as a rosé, then this is up there with some of the best.

A blanc de noirs made from early-harvested Pinot Noir from the same blocks as the A1 and A2 from Akitu. Only the first, light pressings are taken, until a slight pinkish hue is shown in the juice. This is then briefly exposed to oxygen ahead of fermentation to create the white/onion skin colour in this wine. Fermentation is in tank, preserving fruit flavour and creating an intriguing profile. Pale onion-skin colour in the glass - you can just about see the influence of Pinot Noir's skin but this is not a rose. The nose is chock full or peach and white strawberry fruit, and intriguing style that has a creamy edge. The palate follows in the same vein, bursting with ripe stone fruit and hints of plum. There is a viscosity and lightly creamy, almost brioche-y edge to the fruit, but the acid is zesty and prominent, cutting through the lightly oily texture. A unique fruit and texture profile makes this a very interesting style, but it is of a quality that makes it more than just a passing curiosity. Drink now, or over the next 3+ years.