Close-Planted Pinot Noir — From Burgundy Tradition to Yarra Valley Precision
Close-Planted Pinot Noir — From Burgundy Tradition to Yarra Valley Precision
Why high-density vines (8,000–12,000/ha) create smaller berries, deeper roots, and more expressive Pinot Noir — and how Serrat’s 8,800 vines/ha bring that Burgundian philosophy to life in the Yarra Valley.
From Romanée-Conti to Leroy, Burgundy’s greatest Pinot Noirs share one quiet constant: vines planted close together. Let’s unpack what close-planted means, why density matters, and how Serrat Close-Planted Pinot Noir 2024 captures this Burgundian philosophy in Yarra Valley soil.
What does “close-planted” mean?
In Burgundy, vineyards are typically planted at 8,000–12,000 vines per hectare — about twice as dense as most Australian vineyards. Each vine competes for limited water and nutrients, which drives roots deep into limestone and clay. The result: smaller berries, thicker skins, and wines of exceptional intensity and texture.
Why density changes flavour
- Lower yield concentrates colour, aroma and flavour.
- Deep roots absorb subtle minerals for greater complexity.
- Balanced canopy improves light, airflow and fruit health.
From Burgundy to Yarra Valley
Close planting is demanding — every task must be done by hand. Few Australian producers pursue it fully. One of the rare exceptions is Serrat, a small, north-facing vineyard only 3 km from Yarra Glen in the heart of the Yarra Valley.
Serrat Vineyard Facts:
• Density: 8,800 vines/ha (≈4× national average)
• Yield: roughly one vine equals one bottle
• Soils: grey-brown clay and buckshot gravel over red clay and decomposed mudstone
• Farmed entirely by hand
Serrat Close-Planted Pinot Noir 2024
The 2024 vintage blends MV6, 848, 943 and Pommard clones, with about 30% whole bunch fermentation. Aged 11 months on lees in 500 L French oak puncheons (25% new Tronçais oak). The result is a wine that balances power and grace.
Aromatics
Dark and red cherry with plum and wild strawberry, lifted by rose and spice. Whole bunch fermentation adds perfume and freshness.
Palate
Silky and voluminous, yet tightly focused. Fine tannins frame layers of red fruit and subtle savoury depth. Serious extract, balanced by purity and length.
Structure
- Fermentation: 30% whole bunch
- Maturation: 11 months on lees
- Oak: 500 L puncheons (25% new Tronçais)
- Best drinking: 2030–2040
Previous vintages: 2023 – 98 pts; 2022 – 97 pts
Why you’ll taste the difference
| Aspect | Typical Pinot | Serrat Close-Planted |
|---|---|---|
| Vine density | 3,000–4,000 /ha | 8,800 /ha |
| Average yield | ~50 hl/ha | ~25 hl/ha |
| Root depth | Shallow to medium | Deep, mineral-rich |
| Labour | Partly mechanised | 100% hand work |
| Wine style | Soft and open | Concentrated and textural |
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