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NOTES
Garry and Rollo Crittenden are dedicated small scale vignerons with an exciting range of handcrafted wines. Today, their efforts are channelled into producing small batches of wines that elegantly and emphatically speak of their varietal and geographic provenance under the Crittenden Estate, Pinocchio and Geppetto ranges The family takes great care, pleasure and pride in the wine it produces. The portfolio spans estate-grown, cool climate wines of Burgundian origin, new and exciting Italian varietals and other regional classics from both the Mornington Peninsula and further afield from some of central and north-east Victoria’s finest vineyards.
While that is indicative of how far this family company has come since planting its first vines on the Peninsula 25 years ago, there is one overriding and essential constant linking all phases of its winemaking endeavours: a deep-seated commitment to doing everything possible in the vineyard that leads to the finest fruit quality and, afterwards, treating that fruit in the winery in such a way as to ensure it produces inspirational wine that reflects such care, passion and craftsmanship.
This range of wines is where Garry and Rollo have a little fun. Well more fun than usual that is. The Pinocchio label is a fertile ground for experimentation; something that the Crittendens enjoy. This enthusiasm is reflected in Pinocchios eclectic range of wines which will appeal to the adventurous and those among us who are willing to branch out and try something new.
Having said this, over the past ten years consumer awareness and appreciation of wines such as Sangiovese and Arneis have expanded beyond recognition in Australia, as wine lovers begin to discover their point of difference from French varietals and their inherent synergy with food. The Pinocchio range of wines are best enjoyed with food and provide those in the company of friends with a wonderful way to discover, learn, experiment and embark upon a wine drinking adventure.
TASTING NOTES
If you are invited to lunch with a Piemontese (North West Italy) winemaker you will invariably be served a Dolcetto. The big guns, Nebbiolo and Barbera, are saved for dinner that night. This is fitting as Dolcetto expresses all that is fresh, lively and juicy in a lighter style red wine. As the tannins are quite low and the alcohol never too high it is suitable for consumption at lunch. The aromas in this Dolcetto are quite beguiling and remind me of damson plums and cherries with a touch of aniseed. The palate is long and racy with a cleansing acidity; all in all a very refreshing wine. Enjoy in moderation with lots of different pasta styles.
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