Biodynamic. Angel Flower is the prettiest of many synonyms for yarrow, a grassland and pasture plant with delicate, fennel-like leaves and a brilliant mass of white flowers. Yarrow is the basis of the biodynamic preparation 502 and is strongly associated with mobilising natural sulphur and potassium in the soil.
Planted in 2000 at 11,111 vines per hectare, the 0.7-hectare Angel Flower plot is the cooler, more exposed Pinot block on the Pyramid Valley property. It’s a stunning, steeply sloped, north-facing block located at the southern tip of the Estate. The soils are shallow and coarse with less clay (15%) than Earth Smoke, which Huw Kinch says enhances the wine’s aromatic profile. By comparison, you can expect similar weight and shape to Earth Smoke, with heightened floral aromatics and a silky slip through the palate.
The winemaking mirrors Earth Smoke, so the difference comes purely from site and soil. It leaps out the glass with scents of peonies, dried herbs and summer berries underscored by a flinty, underbrush savouriness. It is like drinking satin, with flavours of berry compote and fresh sour cherries floating over the palate, seamless structure and a mineral, iodine-spiked finish. It’s a dazzlingly good Pinot and sheer class.