A new release from Rockburn with a focus on specific sites or clones within the vineyard. As winemaker Malcolm Rees-Francis says “All grapes are picked. Not all are chosen”. Both wines are from their Parkburn vineyard, and neither has any new oak component in the creation. The first wine is from the Hillside Block – a steep east-facing block that gets morning sun, but is protected from the afternoon heat. The second is a clonal expression of just 777 clone Pinot. I’m a fan of these single clone Pinots in particular.
The Chosen Hillside Pinot Noir 2021
A bright ruby red in the glass, vibrantly perfumed with plum, blueberry, cracked pepper, red cherry, thyme and cassis. Medium weighted, with a delicate purity and poise into the palate. For a young wine this is wonderfully seamless and ready to go. A subtle power and depth, with plush fruit, fine, supple tannins and an easy wave of acidity carrying the spicy, slightly savoury flavours along. A complexity and persistance to the finish. 94pts
The Chosen 777 Pinot Noir 2021
A dark burgundy, lightening to garnet at the rim. Aromas of dark cherry, cinnamon, raspberry, damson, sumac and musk rose petals. Much more savoury, with mushroom, rosehip, tapenade and balsamic notes across the riper fruit flavours. The tannins are also darker, with a black-tea edge and a fair amount of grip. Acid is bright, and offers a balance to the quite complex layers of interest through the palate. Rich, peppery and spiced, with florals throughout and into the focussed, concentrated finish. 95pts
