Grape Variety: 100% Sauvignon Blanc

Growing Region: Marlborough, New Zealand

Owner/ Chief Winemaker: Jules Taylor

TASTING NOTE:
As soon as I began to pour the wine into my glass, I could sense summer thinking that it should get a wriggle on and turn up the heat. The 2011 Sauvignon harvest from Marlborough was not easy for many - but in this glass Jules has somehow captured some fantastic aromatics.

The fruit for this Sauvignon Blanc was grown in the Hawkesbury, Lower Wairau & Awatere Valley sub regions of Marlborough. If you have ever met Jules, she is one of the most approachable, relaxed people you will meet. But I would hate to be a Sauvignon grape waiting for the nod from Jules - as she is ruthless on quality and each parcel of fruit was chosen for its specific contribution to aroma, flavour and structure of the resultant blend. To retain as much natural freshness and varietal personality the winemaking was deliberately kept simple.

The grapes were harvested, pressed and cold settled over a period of 48 hours. After racking off juice lees, a long, cool fermentation with selected yeast strains took place. Post fermentation, the components were blended, stabilised and bottled. In the glass you will be greeted by a light lime colour. The wine has lively aromas of passion-fruit, citrus and capsicum notes. The palate is full of tropical and citrus fruits, nicely complemented by fresh herbaceous characters. The well balanced fruit and natural acidity ensures the flavours roll on to a lingering dry finish. Serve at 8C.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking perfectly well this coming summer; and well into 2012.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with shellfish, Asian & seafood cuisine and a feta cheese salad, enjoy.

Pure Gold - Air NZ Wine Awards 2011.