2015 Auntsfield Estate Sauvignon Blanc Single Vineyard Marlborough

Auntsfield Estate aims to produce a distinctive style of Sauvignon Blanc, defined by a riper flavor spectrum and textural palate (both derived from the rich clay soils of the vineyard) with an underlying minerality. The 2014 season was characterized by naturally high yields resulting from an early, warm settled spring. A very dry summer followed with vineyard work focused reduced yields by hand to optimal levels. This allowed the fruit to ripen to optimal levels in the cool and settled conditions of early autumn. A season rewarding hard work and vigilance in the vineyard.

The action in the winery is quite simple. Cool ferments with cultured yeast in stainless steel tanks was utilized to retain the fresh varietal aromatics. This was balanced by a portion of the fruit subjected to traditional winemaking practices; handpicked, whole bunch pressed and fermented in seasoned oak barrels, adding texture and length to the wine.

Pale Straw. Intense and pure aromas of fresh nectarine and peach skin are complimented by notes of passionfruit, ripe citrus tropical fruit and crushed herbs. The palate is quite powerful but with a taughtness and elegance. This wine displays intense ripe fruit flavors ofnectarine and white peach, with citrus notes of ripe grapefruit and mandarin peel. The palate has intense concentration and generous weight, balanced by an underlying minerality and tight structure to shape a wine with lively tension and textural balance.

    Region: Southern Valleys of Marlborough

    Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc

    Vintage: 2014

    Vineyard: Auntsfield Estate

    Vine Age: 21 years old

    Viticulture: Organic Farming

    Yield: 3.4 tons per acre

    Soil Type: Loess Clay over Greywacke Rock

    TA: 7.5 g/L

    pH: 3.25

    Alcohol: 13%

    Oak: 90% Stainless Steel - 10% fermented in seasoned French barrique

    Production: 8,000 cases