2025 Circulus Pinot Noir

Grown on Eocene/Holocene loamy clay and sand over Miocene limestone marl and sandy/silty calcareous clay, alongside free-draining Eocene sandy loam duplex sodosols. Sourced from vineyards planted between 1997 and 2001 with clones that include MV6 and UC Davis D5V12, planted on both own roots and Paulsen 1103 rootstock. North-south-oriented rows are managed under VSP trellising with cordon-trained spur pruning. Hand-harvested over three picks in early to mid-March 2025, with 10% whole bunch inclusion, and cold soaked for two days prior to fermentation on skins in open-top fermenters over approximately 15 days. Matured for 10 months in French oak barriques (27% new) before being racked and bottled in March 2026. The 2024-25 growing season on the Bellarine began with a dry winter and early budburst, setting up an early and relatively compressed season across the region. Spring rainfall events were welcome and reasonably well spaced. Dry conditions persisted through late spring and summer, with below-average rainfall from flowering to harvest placing pressure on water resources and contributing to lower yields and smaller berries in some vineyards. The upside was excellent fruit concentration, vibrant natural acidity and strong varietal definition. Bright ruby in colour, with red currant, cranberry, and pomegranate lifted by maraschino cherry, finishing with fine tannins, red plum, and cedar. – John White, Circulus