Tuatara Bay Sauvignon Blanc

When the oceans in the heavens became too warm then Mango (the shark), and Tuatara (the great lizard) came down to earth in search of cooler waters. It was then that Mango said to Tuatara, “Let us reside on land”. 

They argued at length until Mango said to Tuatara: “Very well, remain on land to be loathed by all”. 

Tuatara replied: “That will give me distinction, and I will thrive, but you will be hauled up with a hook in  your mouth, cast into a canoe, and pounded with a fernroot- pounding mallet, after which you will be hung to dry like a wet rag”.                               

                                    “Maori Religion and mythology” Eldson Best.

Producer Note

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 led by Hamish Clark. 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”.

Vineyard

The fruit for this wine was selected from vineyards across Marlborough’s sub regions, including the Wairau Valley. In this region a magical synergy of climate and soil come together to produce wines with extraordinary purity of fruit. Situated in the north eastern corner of New Zealand's South Island, the vineyards are surrounded by the Pacific Ocean to the east and hinterland mountain ranges to the north and south.

Winemaking

The fruit was carefully monitored throughout maturity and was harvested upon reaching optimum flavour development and ripeness. The grapes were immediately transported to the winery and pressed with minimal skin contact; the resulting juice was cool fermented in stainless steel to retain freshness and aromatics.

Tasting Note

Aromas of passionfruit and blackcurrant are complemented by fresh, lifted notes of green leaf and a hint of flint. The succulent and flavoursome palate is imbued with citrus flavours, grapefruit, blackcurrant and layered with a mineral note.

Serving Suggestion

Ideal on its own or with light dishes such as chicken or a seafood salad.

Grape

Sauvignon Blanc 100%