The Black Label Pinot Noir grapes grow in the lower half of the property, a spot that's sunny and warm during the grape growing season, but cold in winter— the cold air lingers at the bottom of the steep slopes where the younger vines are planted. Some older vine fruit from higher parcels goes in the blend, which helps mitigate the effect of heat spikes during the growing season (clones 114, 115, 777, MV6, D2V6, D5V12, and G8V3 were planted in the 1990s). 10% whole bunch adds a stalky appeal and tannin structure. After 10 days of cold soaking under argon the fruit, voluptuous and extremely well balanced, was pressed to tight grained French oak, 15% new. The wine was aged for 22 months on lees prior to racking with no filtration or fining. Fruit is wholly drawn from the bottom block with pressings. The product of a remarkable season in the Adelaide Hills, this ‘Black Label’ represents the very best of a young wine from Whisson Lake. Its pale colour belies its intense fruitiness, with heady perfumes of strawberry, roses, and sour Davidson’s plum. Dig deeper to uncover restrained aromas of wax crayon, aniseed, and fresh earth, with tart fruits on the palate and very pretty tannins. This is another Pinot from Whisson Lake that punches well above its weight. - Mark & Andrie Whisson, Winemakers.