Gimblett Gravels Reserve Viognier 2021

Reflecting the terroir the wine displays distinctive characters of white peach and nectarine stone fruits combined with subtle citrus and a spice note. Rich and complex with layers of flavours, full-bodied with a lingering and fresh finish.

Vigour moderating free draining gravel.

The Gimblett Gravels winegrowing region of Hawke's Bay is highly regarded and recognised as one of the best places of New Zealand to produce quality wine. The gravelly soils of the region laid down by the old Ngaruroro River were exposed after a huge flood in the 1860’s. These vigour moderating soils combined with the maritime climate is the perfect combination to produce concentrated wines full of flavour. Sourced from a single vineayrd, winemakers watched the ripening phase closely harvesting only once the full physiological ripeness was reached. Harvesting took place in the cool of the evening which assists with retaining favours and preserves the purity of the fruit.

Once fully ripened the grapes were harvested, pressed and settled. As the Hawke's Bay region is in the North Island and Saint Clair is located in the South Island the juice was taken via truck (and across the Cook Straight via ferry) to the Saint Clair winery located in Marlborough. Here the winemakers handcrafted the wine. Yeast that had been carefully selected was utilised to carry out the fermentation. This was all carried out under cool temperatures wth 30% being fermented in seasoned French oak barriques.The resulting wine is flavoursome, concentrated and full of intenisty.

5% seasoned oak