Tasted again on ‘Sauvignon Blanc Day’ 7th May ’21, this 2014 is the current release, from a special block (Section 94) of the largest organic vineyard in New Zealand. That a ’14 is the current wine tells you something about it’s ageing ability, and that it’s not your average Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.
Pale lemon yellow, with effusive aromas that jump from the glass. A struck match funky smokiness comes first, followed by a dried pineapple, grapefruit, satsuma, popcorn and fresh chopped green herbs. Tight and intense, dancing with a brisk acidity as it broadens onto the concentrated fruit in the mid-palate – nectarine, preserved lemon and green melon.
Oak influence is obvious, with a nutty, vanilla spiciness, but that balances nicely against the distinct salinity and a layer of oyster-shell minerality. Finshes with a flourish – the various elements in harmony and focus. 95pts. One of our great NZ Sauvignon Blancs.
