There are a range of styles of Sauvignon, from very young, fruity expressions to those that have more refinement, character, and ability to age, like those from Foxes Island. Winemaker John Belsham's winemaking training commenced in Bordeaux, over 40 years ago and the philosophy of making sophisticated, elegant wines that reflect the terroir are rooted in every bottle he makes.
Sauvignon Blanc was originally planted in the Belsham Awatere Estate as a wind-block for the Pinot Noir. The Sauvignon Blanc vines are closely planted in ancient soils filled with friable minerals. The prevailing summer winds force the vines to direct their energy into developing deep root systems and ripening fruit. Maintaining low yields per vine, the grapes have exceptional phenolic structure and flavour intensity.
The 2016 vintage was outstanding, resulting in very structured wines with beautiful fruit characters. In classic John Belsham style, the 2016 sur lie aged Sauvignon Blanc is a pure expression with precise architecture, elegant lines, and vibrant energy; showcasing the age-ability of premium Sauvignon Blanc. Unlike commercial expressions, the sur lie aged Sauvignon Blanc is designed to age.
Hand-tended, and hand-harvested, the grapes were gently pressed, to avoid any pressings and bitter compound extraction. The juice was fermented dry and allowed to age on its lees to build texture, creaminess, and soft, gentle curves that follow a precise architectural line that is long and lovely. Once bottled, the wine is cellar-aged in bottle to develop layers of interest and complexity before release.
On release, the wine shows a vibrant core of citrus blossom, white peach, oyster shell, and ripe alpine herb flavours, underscored by salinity, and a subtle, nutty lees character that is deeply satisfying and delicious.
About Sauvignon Blanc, the Wild Grape
From one of the most ancient vines in the world, Sauvignon Blanc has a rich history in winemaking. The mother to Cabernet Sauvignon, the name Sauvignon comes from the French word, 'Sauvage', meaning wild. Although the parentage is not fully known, Sauvignon Blanc's origins are in western France, both in the Loire Valley (Sancerre) and in the Bordeaux region (Bordeaux Blanc).
Here in New Zealand, Sauvignon Blanc has found its home and expresses itself in a way that is not replicated in other parts of the world; making it truly unique and reflective of the climate and soil in which it grows.
