By Farr 'Tout Pres' Pinot Noir 2022

Tout Pres was planted in 2001 and is a very special and intriguing site. It rises above the other vineyards, and each of the three slopes consists of a different soil type. The largest slope is black volcanic soil over limestone; the second is quartz gravel mixed with red ironstone; the third is an iron strand in grey sandy loam. The clones, which will acclimatise and mutate over time to become the ‘Tout Pres clone’, are 113, 114, 115, 667, 777 and MV6.

With 7300 vines per ha, Tout Pres is a densely planted vineyard on the estate—hence its name, which translates as “very cosy”. This land is a challenge to farm, but well worth the effort. The soils and close competition force the vines to work hard, with the result being fruit that is lush but masculine, and which provides the coveted structure found only in the most age-worthy wines.

Tout Pres is fermented with 100 per cent whole bunches (80 per cent in 2011) in a five-tonne oak fermenter. This wine has the largest flavour profile and intensity, to absorb 100 per cent new French oak from Allier. A wine with truly understated power and richness—the classic peacock’s tail.

TASTING NOTE – ‘These two Pinots share a symmetry. There’s recognisable DNA from the house of Farr that’s undeniable, something that’s becoming more exclusive in modern wine making. The concept of tasting a wine and being able to tell who made it, is more and more uncommon. Thankfully, that’s never been an issue from the Farrs. The difference between the two Pinots comes primarily from the site within the property, trellising and handling. Tout Pres, from its miniature and densely packed vines delivers a wine of greater density of palate too. That fuller texture gives the wine more richness, palate weight and more noticeable softness. The Tout Prés has more sweet perfume, aromatic wood and more toasty, chocolate and mocha warmth, yet follows the path of brilliant freshness and expressive tension.’ Ben Knight for Nick Farr