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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
The distinguishing character of Sangiovese, in our view at least, should be one of savouriness followed by bitter (morello) cherries - traits which are more than abundant in our 2008 Pinocchio version. There is no “sweetness” on the mid palate such as you might expect from Pinot Noir. The finish is admirably long and tart with that refreshing spine of acidity and firm drying tannins. Goes so well with many Italian dishes.
REVIEWS
Sangiovese produces some of Italy's finest - and worst - wines. Locally there is huge variation too. This is earthy, with sour cherry characters. Serve it with meatballs. Sally Gudgeon, The Age Sunday Life, May 2009
Deep ruby in colour with a brick red rim. An earthy, dry, tobacco leaf, inky nose with slowly emerging fruit in a weighty wine style. Good balance on the palate with grippy, well integrated tannins, spice and dried fruit flavours. A savoury, meaty finish. "This wine is developing well" one taster said. The Australian & New Zealand Wine Industry Journal, September/October 2008, Volume23 Number5
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