Vintage 2020 was a harvest like no other in Marlborough. Having to go into full lockdown for COVID-19 just before the grapes were ready, challenged all the systems of the OTU Estate vineyard and winery team. Thankfully, a great season and considered teamwork across the whole of Marlborough, led to some outstanding fruit across the varietal range. A good rainfall of 100mm through the 16 to 20 December set up the wine and soil moisture conditions for the rest of the season. A very dry period from December 21 through to April 21, allowed the grapes to ripen fully. Rainfall of only 43mm compared to the long term average of 185mm was the lowest on recent records, again assisting full flavoured, perfect fruit.
The wine displays dark cherry, black plum aromas with light cedar, smoky oak notes. A rich, concentrated palate follows, with fine tannins that will develop further over time.