2022, Kekerengu Coast Sauvignon Blanc

Winery - Astrolabe Astrolabe, established in 1996 by Simon Waghorn and his wife Jane, is a winery renowned for its exceptional wines that capture the essence of the Marlborough region of New Zealand. Located in the Wairau Valley, Astrolabe is dedicated to sustainable viticulture and innovative winemaking techniques. The winery has gained acclaim for its focus on expressing the distinct terroir of each vineyard site. Utilizing both traditional methods and modern digital technology, Astrolabe emphasizes meticulous vineyard management and precision in the winemaking process. This commitment to quality is evident in their award-winning wines, known for their purity, intensity, and character.

Wine Region - Marlborough, New Zealand Marlborough, New Zealand’s premier wine region, is celebrated for its vibrant and aromatic white wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc. The region benefits from a unique climate with cool nights, sunny days, and a long growing season, which contribute to the development of intense flavor compounds in the grapes. The varied soils ranging from gravelly to clay loams are ideal for producing Sauvignon Blanc with a diverse range of flavors. Marlborough's geographical diversity, from coastal areas to river valleys, allows for a wide array of wine styles, making it a key region for producing distinctive and high-quality wines.

Varietal - Sauvignon Blanc The Kekerengu Coast Sauvignon Blanc by Astrolabe is a single-varietal wine that showcases the expressive character of Marlborough's Sauvignon Blanc. This grape is known for its vibrant acidity and aromatic profile, often featuring notes of tropical fruit, citrus, and herbal elements. In the Kekerengu Coast expression, expect a wine that balances fruitiness with minerality, offering a complex and layered tasting experience. The coastal influence imparts a unique saline character, adding to the wine's depth and making it a standout representation of the varietal.

Vintage - Weather Conditions and Impact The vintage year of the Kekerengu Coast Sauvignon Blanc was marked by favorable weather conditions. A moderate spring led to good flowering, while the summer was characterized by long, sunny days and cool nights. This weather pattern allowed for slow and even ripening of the grapes, ensuring a balance of acidity and sugar levels. The resulting wine is distinguished by its freshness, aromatic intensity, and crispness, reflective of an exceptional growing season.

Description

• Appearance: This wine displays a pale straw color with greenish hues, indicating its freshness.
• Aroma: The nose is greeted with an enticing array of aromas, including passion fruit, lime, and a subtle herbaceousness.
• Palate: On the palate, it offers a lively acidity and a spectrum of flavors from tropical fruits to green apple, culminating in a long, mineral-laden finish.
• Cellaring Potential: While delightful when young, this wine also possesses the potential to develop added complexity over several years.
• Serving Temperature: Best served chilled, at around 8-10°C, to accentuate its vibrant character.
• Food Pairings: Perfect with seafood, salads, goat cheese, or as an aperitif.

Including the Kekerengu Coast Sauvignon Blanc from Astrolabe in your wine collection offers an opportunity to experience the pinnacle of Marlborough's winemaking. Its distinctive character, borne of a unique coastal terroir, represents the innovation and quality that New Zealand wines are renowned for. This Sauvignon Blanc stands out for its balance, aromatic complexity, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for both immediate enjoyment and for observing its evolution over time. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or exploring the nuances of Sauvignon Blanc, this wine from Astrolabe is a must-have, encapsulating the essence of Marlborough's extraordinary winemaking potential.