The grapes were partially hand harvested from the 100% Estate-owned Te Muna Road Vineyard, one of the most prestigious growing sites within the Martinborough region of New Zealand. The grapes are destemmed (85%) prior to fermentation in a combination of stainless steel tanks, French oak cuvees, and French oak barriques, using both indigenous and inoculated yeasts. The wine ages four months in French oak barriques, 3% new, before being fined, filtered and bottled.
The 2018 vintage was marked by a warm and humid growing season that created conditions for optimum maturation and ripeness while retaining the signature acidity that characterizes the fruit from this vineyard. yields. As the summer progressed, the consistent weather allowed the fruit to ripen evenly without large fluctuations in temperatures through the growing season. Yields were still below average, but with such great quality in the grape clusters, the Sauvignon Blanc developed lovely, well-rounded flavors coupled with good acidity.
Pairs wonderfully with a broad range of seafood and antipasti dishes. Also works exceptionally well on its own as an aperitif.
The higher elevation Te Muna Road Vineyard is harvested about a week later than sites in nearby Martinborough, resulting in grapes with terrific freshness and acidity.
The vineyard’s lower terrace has stony soils with limestone, excellent for Sauvignon Blanc.
White wines from this vineyard show a distinctive fine, subtle and elegant texture.