# Rabbit Hole Pinot Noir (2022)

- **Producer:** Simpsons' Wine Estate
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** England, United Kingdom
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €32
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, strawberry, raspberry, redcurrant, violet, vanilla, cloves, toast, forest floor, game

## About this wine

Simpsons' Wine Estate is situated in the Elham Valley, an unspoilt part of the North Downs of Kent. Established by Ruth and Charles Simpson, who brought their extensive winemaking expertise from the Languedoc, the estate focuses on producing world-class still and sparkling wines. The 'Rabbit Hole' Pinot Noir is sourced from a single, south-facing vineyard parcel planted on highly prized chalk soils, showcasing the exciting potential of still red wines in England's cool climate.

## Interesting facts

- The wine is named after a path running alongside the Roman Road vineyard where wild rabbits have made their home.
- The vines are planted on the same chalk ridge that runs from southern England all the way down to the Champagne region.
- Simpsons' Wine Estate was established after the founders spent a decade successfully running Domaine Sainte Rose in southern France.

## Food pairing

The bright acidity and delicate red fruit profile of this cool-climate Pinot Noir make it exceptionally versatile. It cuts beautifully through the richness of fatty meats like duck or pork belly, while its earthy undertones harmonize perfectly with mushrooms and game.

## Wine making process

The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted upon arrival at the state-of-the-art winery. The fruit undergoes cold maceration to gently extract color and primary fruit aromas, followed by fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks with regular punching down. A portion of the wine is aged in French oak barrels to impart subtle structure, complexity, and spice, while preserving the delicate, bright fruit characteristics of the Pinot Noir grape.