A top-level Sauvignon Blanc from this producer, only made in the best years – sourced “from select rows in the lower Wairau Valley in Marlborough”. When I read that it was “aged in a mix of seasoned French and American oak barriques” I expected more power and boldness, but found this to be a very fine and elegant expression of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.
A bright, light lemon-green colour in the glass. The bouquet is clean, fresh and varietally pure, without too much of the bombastic nose of it’s peers. Apple, pear and lime sit in a fruit basket beside tropical fruits, with top notes of crushed green herbs and pink peppercorn. Dry to taste, brimming with acidity that carries the palate. A light touch of ‘al dente’ lees character is a counterpoint to a silky texture feature in the back of the palate – both adding personality and complexity. A crisp finish with good persistence too. This could cellar well and be an interesting proposition in a few years time. 93pts
