Nose
The bouquet is ripe, opulent and intense which is the hallmark of the 2013 whites. Fragrant
nectarine and nashi pear are supported by baked apple, lemon curd and a savoury yet subtle
biscuit character from fermentation and lees stirring.
Palate
The hallmark creamy texture with flavours of grapefruit has a crisp, clean finish and a
lemon/lime acidity cutting it through. Russian oak in the Semillon ferment adds a delicate
vanilla spice. Medium bodied and nicely weighted in the mouth, the palate is round and
textural, Semillon filling out the mid palate with Sauvignon Blanc providing aromatics.
Growing Conditions
Extremely strong winds and cool conditions during flowering had a significant effect on fruit
set and therefore on yield across all varieties. The low crop levels along with a warm
December and January resulted in perfect ripening conditions, with harvest beginning mid‐
February which is about average. Little to no rainfall across February and March allowed all
white varieties to develop without any disease pressure which provided white fruit retaining
an abundance of varietal flavour and showing great concentration and intensity
Winemaking
Each vineyard that contributes to the Semillon Sauvignon Blanc is vinified separately. One
third of every batch is barrel fermented in a combination of new and older oak, with the
balance tank fermented. Barrel ferment temperature is controlled at several degrees higher
than the tank components and the lees are stirred regularly in both tank and barrels for two
months prior to blending, fining and filtration.
Appearance
Delicate straw with a green hue, clear and bright.
Food Pairing
Freshly caught and pan fried King George Whiting served on a green
leaf salad with a lime and macadamia dressing
