A blend of 71% Semillon and 29% Sauvignon Blanc, from the spectacular 2020 vintage in Hawke’s Bay – the “bunches selected for a heavy botrytis infection”. A deep golden green colour in the glass. An intriguing aroma, with ripe apricot, quince and pineapple contrasted with a tar and eucalypt astringency and waxiness. Honey, roasted pears and cloves also play a part on the nose. Tasting fresh and vibrant, with a prickly acidity to offset the sweetness and depth. A warm spice and toast of oak adds weight and breath to the spectrum. A tightrope balance between ripeness and that pithy phenolic bite that strikes the back of the palate into the drier, lengthy finish. 94pts
Askerne Noble Kathryn 2020
