Akitu Pinot Noir Blanc 2022

Drink it now or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant, but best to open it half an hour before service. Founded in 2001 by Andrew Donaldson, Akitu is a family-run winery located in New Zealand's Central Otago region, in the Upper Clutha Basin. The winery owns approximately 12 hectares of vineyards spread across six sections, planted exclusively with diverse Pinot Noir clones on a north-facing slope, just minutes from Lake Wanaka on shale soils. The word Akitu comes from the Maori language and means "apex." The Pinot Noir grapes are harvested early in the morning and then whole-bunch pressed. The white vinification takes place without contact with the skins, partly in old oak barrels to give depth and complexity to the wine. In the glass, the wine reveals a brilliant lemon-yellow color enhanced by golden-green highlights and pink hues. The nose opens with floral notes of rose petals, intertwined with fruity aromas of stone fruit, pear, and quince, followed by hints of ginger and honey. On the palate, it is vibrant and juicy, with a pleasant and invigorating concentration of citrus and cranberry. It is light, elegant, and crisp. It has a distinctive saline edge, lively acidity, and a silky texture. The finish is long and evokes mineral notes. It pairs perfectly with grilled seafood.