Neudorf Tiritiri Sauvignon Blanc 2019

The pristine and spectacularly beautiful Nelson region in the south island of NZ and in particular the Clay Gravel Moutere Hills area receive lots of sun (more than 2300 hours a year) making it one of New Zealand’s sunniest regions a real bonus for such a cool climate region. Clear skies allow for rapid cooling at night, nurturing the slow development of flavours and a gradual reduction in fruit acids. This combination of climate and soil type produces white wines of concentration and texture, and rich savoury Pinot Noir with a fingerprint of textured minerally fruit acid.

Established in 1978 by Tim and Judy Finn, Neudorf use sustainable practices and the winery is accredited under the Sustainable Winery NZ scheme, which Tim was instrumental in establishing back in the early 80’s.   Winemaker Todd Stevens aim is always to allow the site to speak.  Great wines have a basis of fruit concentration, length and sense of place – characters which can be formed only in the vineyard.

Notes from the Winery … “Our Sauvignon is grown on the alluvial gravels down on the Waimea Plains, from Marama Vineyard, owned by Brett and Anna Woodwiss rather than the clay gravels of the Moutere Hills, home to our Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Albariño. Neudorf Sauvignon Blanc is a unique take on New Zealand’s most planted variety.   Winemaker Todd Stevens pursues complex aromatics while remaining true to varietal characteristics. As with the rest of the Neudorf portfolio textural interest is a major component.  In the winery we use 100% wild ferment, and this along with 20% barrel fermentation moderates the high tone nature of the variety.

On the nose a bouquet of bright blossom is underpinned by fresh summer fruits. The feel across the palate is poised, succulent, bracing and sophisticated. This Sauvignon exudes restraint. It is refreshing and textural, alluring and moreish.

94 points, Bob Campbell MW “Fresh, crisp and tangy sauvignon blanc with bright grapefruit, guava, salty, mineral and ginger flavours. the wine has appealing purity, a pleasing texture and impressive concentration. 94 Points.”