Description

ABOUT THE PRODUCER:
Neal and Judy Ibbotson were pioneers in the Marlborough wine industry, first planting vineyards in the valley in 1978 and then establishing Saint Clair Family Estate in 1994. They own 160 hectares of vineyard in 10 different Marlborough locations chosen specifically for the attributes of their individual “terroir” and ability to produce top quality grapes. Neal Ibbotson combines his extensive expertise in viticulture with the talent of one of New Zealand’s leading winemaking teams. Since 1994, when wines from the first vintage all won medals including gold, the name Saint Clair has been synonymous with quality and its award-winning record continues today. This is a sentiment shared by Bob Campbell MW, who says “Saint Clair now makes the country’s and perhaps the world’s best Sauvignon Blanc”.

THE VINTAGE:
2021 was characterised by a lower yield, as it was a very dry year. Springtime flowering conditions were not favourable, with cool weather leading to a large reduction in yield. Additionally, late spring frosts affected small pockets of vineyards, resulting in smaller bunch weights, smaller berries and lower numbers of berries. However, while the quantity was down, the quality was excellent. Early March produced typical Marlborough weather of warm days and cool nights: perfect ripening conditions.

ABOUT THE VINEYARD:
The grapes were harvested from a single vineyard in Marlborough’s Blind River area of the Awatere Valley. The Blind River area is building a very good reputation for its ability to produce wines with concentrated citrus expression. The climate for this area is typically very dry. The grapes were harvested at the peak of flavour development in the cool of the evening.

THE WINEMAKING PROCESS:
The parcel of fruit was fermented at cool temperatures in stainless steel tanks to retain freshness and intensity of fruit flavour and varietal characteristics. After fermentation it was carefully prepared for bottling, with minimal handling.

OUR TASTING NOTES:
Fragrant notes of Kaffir lime and mandarin are layered with hints of orange blossom and beeswax. On the palate, distinct minerality and fresh citrus flavours of juicy mandarin, lead to a crisp mid-palate with delicate sweetness and a smooth, off-dry finish.

GRAPE VARIETY:
Riesling 100%.