Grape Variety: 100% Viognier

Growing Region: Gisborne, New Zealand

Owners: Kirsten & Richard Searle

TASTING NOTE:
Viognier is the 'new' (but old) grape variety that has been exciting the adventuress amongst you here in New Zealand over the past few years. Not that there is anything too difficult with regards to the style of wines being made, but for those trying to pronounce the name and knowing what cuisine to best match. A large proportion of the enjoyment of wine comes from the aroma, and this particular wine has a very expressive and inviting bouquet, that puts all your senses on alert.

This wine was sourced from the Patutahi area across the Waipaoa River from Matawhero in Gisborne. When ripe the grapes were machine harvested in the cool of evening, to retain as much delicate notes as possible. The fruit was immediately transferred to the winery - where the grapes were pressed and the juice cold settled for 36 hours. Once clear the juice was inoculated with an aromatic yeast and cool fermented until dry. A small portion of Gewurztraminer was added to give breadth to the palate before stabilization and filtering.

In the glass, the wine has a pale straw colour with golden highlights. The bouquet is packed with ripe melon and peach abound with butterscotch and fig. The palate is no less rich, full of ripe fruits, with peach and an inherent creaminess to the finish. Serve at 8-10C.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking perfectly well this season; and over the next 18 months.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with Thai fish cakes, herb chicken salads and vegetarian cuisine, enjoy.

Very approachable, easy drinking style.