# Saint Clair Barrel Aged Pinot Noir (2023)

- **Producer:** Lake Chalice Wines
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Marlborough, New Zealand
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €32
- **Vegan:** No
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, red cherry, cloves, vanilla

## About this wine

The Saint Clair Barrel Aged Pinot Noir is a red wine from Marlborough, New Zealand, produced by Lake Chalice Wines. This wine is characterized by its aging process, which involves six months in French oak barrels. Lake Chalice Wines is a privately and locally owned company, part of the Ibbotson family's wine holdings, which also include the award-winning Saint Clair Family Estate. The Marlborough region is known for its suitability for grape cultivation, contributing to the wine's profile.

## Interesting facts

- Owned by the Ibbotson family, a rarity in NZ wine.
- Aged for six months in French oak barrels.
- Marlborough is more than just Sauvignon Blanc!
- The wine is not vegan-friendly due to egg fining.

## Food pairing

The medium body and balanced tannins of this Pinot Noir make it versatile. Its fruit notes complement lighter meats and poultry, while the subtle oak influence can stand up to richer flavors. The wine's acidity can cut through the richness of pork and duck, and its earthy undertones pair well with mushrooms and root vegetables.

## Wine making process

The Saint Clair Barrel Aged Pinot Noir is produced using 100% Pinot Noir grapes from Marlborough. Key to its character is the aging process, where the wine spends six months in French oak barrels. This technique is employed to develop complexity and texture. Lake Chalice Wines follows a boutique approach to winemaking, aiming for high quality throughout the process.