Vineyard and winemaking
Sileni's Cellar Selection Pinot Noir comes from cooler sites across Hawke's Bay. Gravelly soils contribute perfume, lift and length, while clay-based parcels add roundness and depth, allowing the blend to balance bright fruit with a softly savoury texture.
The 2022 fruit was fermented in stainless steel with gentle pump-overs to avoid extracting hard tannins. Malolactic fermentation softened the palate, and a small proportion of oak brought discreet richness before early bottling retained the wine's freshness and varietal clarity.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Bright ruby-red with a translucent, youthful rim.
Nose
Red cherry, raspberry and plum are joined by rose petal, clove and a light woodland note.
Palate
Supple and easy-flowing, with juicy red berries and plum held by fine tannins and moderate acidity. A touch of oak rounds the middle without weighing it down, while spice and cherry linger on a clean, gently savoury finish.
Food pairing
Pair with roast duck and red cabbage, grilled salmon, mushroom and thyme tart, or pork tenderloin with apple. Its silky texture also works well with Brie or a mild washed-rind cheese.
Background story
Sileni Estates was founded in Hawke's Bay in 1998 by Graeme Avery. Its name refers to the Sileni, companions of Dionysus in Greek mythology, reflecting a philosophy that wine belongs naturally at the table and in convivial company.
Cellar Selection is shaped for immediate enjoyment rather than heavy extraction. By combining different cooler Hawke's Bay sites and using oak sparingly, Sileni presents Pinot Noir in a bright, accessible form with a clear sense of regional fruit.
