Maui North Canterbury Sauvignon Blanc 2021

Aromatically an intense wine showing classic Sauvignon Blanc aromas of gooseberry, nettle & dried herbs & minerality with an underlying tropical & citrus background. Flavours of tropical fruit & herbal notes have been derived from the careful selection of various areas of fruit from the vineyard, the full flavours and tight structure of the palate reflecting the intrinsic qualities of those areas. Made with a moderate acidity level to complement the flavours & provide balance without dominating, a small amount of residual sugar enhances body & balance in what is a generous & complex wine.

The 2021 Vintage in Waipara, North Canterbury was warm and dry. Heat summation was well up on average while rainfall was 50% less than normal over the last three months before harvest.

The lower rainfall meant that disease pressure was not present, allowing the winemaker to be patient and instruct the picking of the fruit in absolute pristine condition where the balance of flavour, sugar and acid were tasted at their premium. The fruit was harvested a few weeks ahead of normal due to these warm days and cool nights.

The fruit was harvested at maximum flavour as assessed through frequent tasting in the vineyard by the winemaker. It was very gently pressed to avoid harsh phenolic extraction and the juice allowed to cold settle. The clear juice was fermented at low temperatures using a range of yeast renowned for their ability to enhance the Sauvignon Blanc aromas. A balanced amount of residual sugar was left in the wine to complement the acidity and to add palate weight and structure.

100% Stainless Steel fermentation