Nightjar Clayhill Vineyard Pinot Noir

100% Pinot Noir. The Pinot Noir for the 'Nightjar' were picked from the Clayhill Vineyard then fermented in the producer's winery in Battersea, London. 30% whole-bunch fermentation gave the 2020 vintage a vibrantly perfumed nose of red roses, smoked plum and cherry liqueur, spiced with fragrant herbs and pepper. Minty red berry fruits on the palate, with a hint of preserved cherry. Aged in 5-10 year old Burgundy barrels for 9 months. Look out for the 2018 'Reserve' version of the Nightjar, to be released next year. Grapes from the Clayhill Vineyard on the coastal peninsula of Crouch Valley, between the rivers Crouch and Blackwater in Essex. South-facing site, clay soils, vines planted in 2006. Burgundy clones 777 and 115. 777 is the workhorse clone – larger bunches and berries, structured, spicy. Spontaneous fermentation in small open-top fermenters with 30% whole bunch. Aged in burgundy barrels for nine months, 10% new oak. No sulphur until racking, no filtering or fining. 10 days of extended maceration. ABV 11.5%