Tasting Notes
From the Tyntsfield vineyard in the Upper Waihopai valley, Mike included 45% whole bunches in the fermentation, layering destemmed fruit at the top at the tank and utilised extended skin contact for several weeks after fermentation finished. Very pale in the glass with dainty notes of raspberry leaf, redcurrant coulis, soft red fruits, freshly baled hay and blackberries. Currants and cranberries on the palate, with the lightest hint of tomato. Delicate, ethereal, very beautiful.
More Info
Eaton Wines was established in 2014 after the family's departure from the TerraVin brand which they had established in 1999. Mikes involvement in the New Zealand wine industry goes right back to 1981 when Marlborough was just beginning its surge onto the international wines scene. Along with his wife Jo, Mike established some of New Zealand’s most renowned Pinot Noir vineyards (Clayvin, Clay Hills, Outpost, Calrossie) and the TerraVin wine brand. Consulting to over 1500ha Mike manages the nutrition and disease programs for premium growers throughout Marlborough and Nelson. From among these growers, Mike selects small parcels from exceptional sites and makes wines in small batches to best reflect their unique characteristics. These selected areas are hand-tended by Mike and his two sons Harrison and Blake. The wines are just about as different as you could get from the typical Marlborough offerings. As stated by Matthew Jukes, "Eaton Family Wines are the epitome of the expression 'hand-made' and every single decision is thought through with forensic attention to detail."