Grapes for this wine were sourced from a single-family owned vineyard in the Rapaura and sub-regions of Marlborough. Each year we refine our vineyard practices aiming to reduce inputs while improving fruit quality. The growing season was characterized by La Nina conditions, the opposite to the El Nino we see in warmer seasons. Slightly cooler than average spring temperatures reduced the amount of fruit that set resulting in small berries with very intense flavor that were picked slightly later than normal.
Winemaking:
We began harvest in early April and picked our way through the vineyard as each sub- block produced the flavor, structure & texture we wanted. Most batches were machine harvested in the early morning giving us the ability to retain as much freshness and "zing" as possible. After gentle pressing and minimal skin contact the juices were fermented cool in tank with selected yeasts in order to bring out the best this vineyard has to offer. Rigorous attention to detail throughout the entire winemaking process has resulted in what we believe to be the best, most reflective Mount Fishtail Sauvignon yet.
Tasting Notes:
This silvery yellow wine practically invites itself to dinner. Finely honed aromatics show the lovely minerality of this vineyard. Pungent cool climate Sauvignon aromas of passionfruit, elderflower, gooseberry, fresh mint laced with a delicate white flower element lead to a very punchy palate with greengage, passionfruit & lime in a classically edgy style with beautiful line and length. We have paid attention this year to retaining the barest amount of natural fruit sugar to balance the juicy, refreshing acidity.
Cellaring:
This wine has been made with drinkability in mind and will drink well from release and will be perfect to drink over the summer months.
Food Accompaniments:
Throw a prawn on the Barbie mate & rip into it.
100% Stainless Steel Fermented Twice daily punch-downs and pump overs Aging 100% Barrel Aged; 19 months; 19% New French Oak, 3% New American Oak, 78% Neutral Oak.
