Tasting Notes
The popularity of this baby Bannockburn suggests this wine needs little introduction. For those new to the story, the 1314 is an early-drinking version of Pinot from Bannockburn's Ann's Block--a site that also feeds Bannockburn's Pinot Noir proper. The vines here were planted between 2003 and 2004 to 114, 115 and MV6 clones.
The fruit usually is mostly de-stemmed, then wild-yeast fermented in four tonne open vessels before it was pressed to French oak hogsheads for eight months maturation. Holmes may have toned down some of the polarising elements of the old style, but it's still a classically sappy, spicy and fleshy Pinot with the kind of hearty core that is so typical of the Bannockburn terroir. Again, it's a bargain. - Distributor Note
An increased focus on the environment and an awareness of sustainable agriculture have given rise to a huge increase in organic viticulture. This is an exciting area of growth in the world of wine, and if done right, one that leads to better wines, healthier vines and soils, and less stress on the earth.
But what makes a wine organic?
Organic wine refers to a method of farming, rather than winemaking. It all starts in the vineyard, where vignerons and viticulturalists no longer use synthetic or systemic pesticides, herbicides or fertilisers. Instead they opt for organic compounds such as copper and sulfur, which can help reduce he pressure of disease and pests. This results in much better vine and soil health, with no unwanted chemicals leeching into local rivers and waterways through run-off.
Organic farming is not to be confused with Biodynamic farming which, although similar, is a different approach and requires many more specific practices. These practices such as specific soil preparations, and lunar-cycle harvesting are not necessary to achieve an organic system.
It is important to note that organic wines can still have sulphur dioxide added to them. Sulphur is an organic compound, and therefore winemakers are free to add it to their wines, and still achieve organic certification. Winemakers will often add sulphur to help stabilise the wine and protect it from oxygen come bottling time. The wine will still be completely organic, assuming the proper farming practices have been adhered to.
| Product Type | Wine Red Pinot Noir |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Country | Australia |
| Region | Victoria |
| Sub Region | Geelong |
| Winemaking Practices | Minimal Intervention |
| Vineyard Practices | Organic/Biodynamic |