Hatherleigh was planted by Nick Bulleid and Susan Herborn between 1996 and 1999. The vineyard grows only Pinot Noir grapes. It lies at 910 metres altitude on an east facing slope of red cracking clay overlooking the village of Laggan, near Crookwell, in the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales. The climate is cool continental, with mild summers and several snowfalls in winter.
Hatherleigh Pinot noir 2004
The growing season was warm, after a bitterly cold October, with enough rainfall to maintain vine health. The grapes were picked on 25th April and 2nd May. This is a very stylish, finely structured Pinot with red plum flavours and the silky tannins and rich, plump middle palate I’m looking for. It finishes with good length of flavour. It will age well, gaining more complexity until at least 2010. A great accompaniment to duck and flavoursome poultry dishes.
Hatherleigh Pinot noir 2003
Spring and summer were warm and dry, but there was good rain and cool weather in autumn. The grapes picked on 6th and 14thApril. The earlier pick was affected by a road accident, the loss of some grapes and about 30% of the juice, which has resulted in a firm tannin structure. It has full, savoury flavours and a robust tannin finish.
The full flavours and firm tannins match steaks and richly flavoured beef and lamb courses.
Laggan Pinot noir 2002
The weather was broadly average during the growing season but with a deluge in February and an unusually warm April. The grapes were picked on 28th April. The wine appeared to lack weight when bottled, but it has surprised us by developing real perfume and depth of flavour. The tannins are soft and the wine is fully ready for drinking.
It goes well with any red meats, but is best with poultry dishes.
All wines are sealed with screwcaps.
All wines are available by arrangement through the vineyard at 35 Redground Heights Rd, Laggan, 2583, or by contacting Nick Bulleid.