Pinot Nero Pònkler

Vineyard and terroir

Pònkler is Pinot Nero from a single vineyard at 750 metres, exposed to the south and southwest. The vines are Guyot-trained and planted at high density on soil composed predominantly of weathered porphyry. Selected French clones have shown particular suitability for this high hillside, while low yields support grape quality. The current page dates the planting to 2007, whereas the technical sheet gives 2000.

Grapes

Pinot Nero.

Vinification

Fermentation takes place in open vats, with frequent pump-overs and punch-downs maintaining contact between the must and skins to extract colour and aromatic compounds. After alcoholic fermentation, the wine is transferred from steel to barriques, where malolactic fermentation takes place.

Ageing

The current page gives 15 months of maturation in barriques; the technical sheet gives 12 months. Several years of bottle ageing follow.

Technical data

Yield: 25–30 hL/ha. Production: 2,500–3,500 bottles. Recommended serving temperature: 16–18 °C.

Tasting profile

The high elevation contributes ripe-fruit notes. The nose is concentrated and deep, with forest berries, star anise and leather. The palate recalls cinchona bark and has substantial body and fullness. Tannins retain developmental potential, while the finish is persistent.

Serving and pairing

Serve at 16–18 °C. Pair with game, braised game, red meat or mature cheeses.