VARIETAL: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
WINEMAKER: Jeremy McKenzie
APPELATION. Marlborough
SUB-REGION: Central Wairau
FARMING: Estate grown exclusively on “Caythorpe” upon light silt loam, alluvial gravel soils. The growing season was characterised by a hot and dry summer, but with a cooler autumnal lead into harvest which was ideal for both ripening and preserving flavours. Two and three cane, vertical shoot positioned vines were carefully managed with early season head shoot thinning, post-fruit set bunch thinning, and a medium level of leaf exposure to deliver fruit with intense flavors.
WINEMAKING: Two small batches were carefully isolated in the vineyard based on fruit maturity and flavour characteristics. Harvested 17th & 26th March in the evening to preserve flavours, immediately gentle pressed; 100% fermented in chilled stainless steel to highlight aromatic characteristics; and at least 10 weeks on yeast lees to develop texture.
TASTING NOTES: Fragrant and floral aromatics of passionfruit and grapefruit, with notes of capsicum and fresh herb. A vibrant and refreshing palate with concentrated passionfruit, lime, grapefruit and subtle nettles. Balanced acidity with an elegant finish.
PAIRINGS: Excellent as an aperitif or with seafood, salads and goat cheese.
94 POINTS CAMERON DOUGLAS MS