The first edition of this label’s white Bordeaux blend to be released under its new reserve name ‘Minuetto’. The blend is 60% Sauvignon Blanc & 40% Semillon – the Semillon fermented in oak puncheons. About one third of the Sauvignon was fermented using whole bunch and then matured on skins for 200 days. Both varieties were aged ‘sur lie’ for approximately 10 months, prior to blending. After bottling, all stock was left to age for another 18 months before release.
A translucent straw colour in the glass. A blast of struck-match reductivity starts the bouquet, followed by grapefruit, whitecurrant, passionfruit, lemon zest, pineapple, sea shells and crushed herbs. A brisk, tart acidity is upfront in a well-structured palate with chalky phenolic texture. A richness of oatmeal crackers and baking spice develops, contrasting that initial juiciness. Finishes dry and persistent. 93pts
