Terra Sancta Slapjack Block Pinot Noir 2024
It started with a map in a dark library and an epiphany. Which led to an Alchemist-like journey to Bannockburn to discover the mysteries of wine and this special place.
A wise man once said, “find the best vineyard sites you can because you can’t out perform your vineyards”. Guided by this wisdom, a process of following the signs, finally led to this far corner of the world, Bannockburn, Central Otago and the Sancta vineyard, home to the first vines planted in Bannockburn.
Once on the migratory path of Maori in search of Pounamu - Bannockburn was settled in 1862 during the gold rush. Felton Road is now a meandering country road of vines, mostly the Pinot Noir for which the region is famed, and orchards. It is also home to the “Mysterious Diggings” created by the gold sluicings from the 19th century gold rush and punctuated with wineries, cellar doors, the bike trail. The best street in New Zealand is also our home base - home to our Terra Sancta Estate vines, cellar door, winery and office, hens, sheep, goats, Hill of Health, Mound of Microbes - it is a vibrant and fascinating corner of the world.
Slapjack Block was the first block planted in Bannockburn. Planted in 1991 as a field mix of 13 clones, the vines are ungrafted on their own roots. Slapjack Block is a sun-drenched, north-facing slope, 250 metres above sea level, on soils dense with glacial schist gravels, with an overlay of clay. An aquifer runs beneath the block. These mature vines are certified organic and farmed using a no-till, regenerative approach to promote soil health. A combination of vine age and viticulture practice consistently produces a balanced crop which is naturally low yielding.
Organic and made naturally using no additives, these Pinot Noir grapes were handpicked early to capture acidity. Created with a gentle hand and minimal intervention, using wild ferments (no whole clusters), the wine was neither fined nor filtered and bottled at Terra Sancta. Twelve months in oak barriques (20% new) has added to its complexity and texture. Bottled under cork.
A classic pairing of roasted duck breast with cherry and five-spice jus or seared venison with a celeriac puree.
A highly perfumed, layered nose of blackberry, blueberry and dried strawberry unfolds with pomegranate, bramble, licorice, thyme, exotic spice and orange peel.
Intense and complex, the palate reveals black cherry and crushed strawberry interwoven with warm spice, star anise and a deep mineral seam of crushed rock and earth. Powerful yet composed, the wine carries beautifully integrated tannins and a lively line of acidity that bring both tension and precision. The finish is long and resonant, a strong mineral thread sustaining fruit, structure and spice. Combining power with grace, this Pinot captures the essence of Slapjack.
