# La Ferme de Sato Pinot Noir Sur Les Nuages (2023)

- **Producer:** La Ferme De Sato
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Central Otago, New Zealand
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.6%
- **Average price:** €76
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** strawberry, cherry, cranberry, orange, smoke, vanilla, cedar, dried cranberry, marmalade

## About this wine

La Ferme de Sato's 'Sur Les Nuages' is the brainchild of Yoshiaki and Kyoko Sato, who transitioned from corporate careers in Tokyo and London to pursue their passion for winemaking in New Zealand. Their philosophy centers on biodynamic and organic farming, coupled with a hands-off approach in the winery, aiming to create wines that are a pure expression of their unique site in Mount Pisa, Central Otago. The name 'Sur les Nuages,' meaning 'Above the Clouds,' aptly reflects the elevated and ethereal style of this Pinot Noir, known for its clarity, purity, and transparent reflection of its vintage and terroir. The 2023 growing season began with a frosty start, followed by a warm, settled summer that contributed to concentration, and concluded with a cooler finish, preserving the natural brightness and freshness of the fruit.

## Interesting facts

- The wine's name, 'Sur les Nuages,' translates to 'Above the Clouds,' reflecting its elevated and ethereal style.
- Producers Yoshiaki and Kyoko Sato made a significant career change, moving from corporate life to pursue winemaking in New Zealand.
- This Pinot Noir is crafted with minimal intervention, featuring natural yeast fermentation and only 15 mg/l of sulfites added before bottling.
- The 2023 vintage received a high score of 96/100 from esteemed wine critic James Suckling.

## Food pairing

This elegant Pinot Noir, with its bright red fruit, subtle earthy notes, and fine tannins, shines with dishes that complement its delicate structure rather than overpower it. It pairs beautifully with poultry, game birds, and lighter red meats, especially when prepared with earthy ingredients like mushrooms or fruit-based sauces. Its acidity can cut through richness, while its nuanced flavors harmonize with complex, savory dishes.

## Wine making process

The viticulture for 'Sur Les Nuages' adheres strictly to biodynamic and organic principles, with no use of pesticides, herbicides, systemic fungicides, or inorganic fertilizers. Grapes were meticulously hand-picked between March 29 and April 17, 2023, from the Sato Pisa Vineyard. In the winery, natural yeast fermentation was employed, with the wine spending 26 to 35 days on skins, notably without any whole bunch fermentation. The winemaking process is minimalist, with no additives used except for a mere 15 mg/l of sulfites added just before bottling. The wine underwent a significant maturation period of 20 months in French oak barrels, with 22% new oak contributing to its structure and complexity. Finally, it was bottled on January 14, 2025, without fining or filtration, ensuring its natural character is preserved.