Maui North Canterbury Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Description
Aromatically an intense wine showing classic Sauvignon Blanc aromas of gooseberry, nettle & dried herbs & minerality with an underlying citrus background. Flavours of citrus & herbal notes have been derived from the careful selection of various areas of fruit from the vineyard, the full flavours and tight structure of the palate reflecting the intrinsic qualities of those areas. Made with a moderate acidity level to complement the flavours & provide balance without dominating, a small amount of residual sugar enhances body & balance in what is a generous & complex wine.
Awards
93 pts Wine Orbit
Certifications
Alcohol
12.5%
Analytical data
Vineyard
The La Niña weather pattern was the dominating influence of our 2023 growing season, which brought less hot north-westerly winds, normally a mainstay of our season, and replaced them with regular cooling easterly winds. The start to spring was cool with temperatures below average. Despite that, as the season progressed, temperatures picked up and we experienced good flowering conditions, resulting in a healthy and balanced crop. Summer saw us experience 30+ degree days mixed in with considerably colder spells. Over Autumn we experienced more of the same, with temperatures fluctuating between spells of beautiful warm sunny days, followed regularly by cold southerlies. These weather patterns, while presenting a challenge, meant the team started picking later allowing for sugar levels to rise. Minimal rain over this time meant the fruit could be held on the vine allowing it to reach our desired levels of ripeness.
Vinification
The fruit was harvested at maximum flavour as assessed through frequent tasting in the vineyard by the winemaker. It was very gently pressed to avoid harsh phenolic extraction and the juice allowed to cold settle. The clear juice was fermented at low temperatures using a range of yeast renowned for their ability to enhance the Sauvignon Blanc aromas. A balanced amount of residual sugar was left in the wine to complement the acidity and to add palate weight and structure.
Maturation
100% Stainless Steel fermentation