Gem Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Marlborough

Still very pale despite its surprising age (surprising for NZ Sauvignon Blanc). Amazingly youthful nose without a trace of the tired character so common with older Sauvignon Blanc. Vibrant, yet subtle with notes of citrus, ripe green fruits and a hint of blossom. Long and crisp, with lovely texture, depth and length.

The Studio Wine Company (Gem’s parent company) was established in 2005 in the Auckland area by Corey and Megan Hall. Their structure involves selecting small parcels of fruit from the best vineyard sites throughout New Zealand and bringing them to the historic old Pleasant Valley winery in West Auckland for vinification. Corey, who handles the winemaking, spends significant amounts of time in the vineyards and winery to ensure he get the results he wants at every stage of the process. Meg, his wife, handles marketing and administration. “The name Gem is symbolic of our approach – picking from the best regions & vineyard sites” says Corey. Gem, incidentally, is also Meg’s name backwards.

Pressed and fermented completely dry. Approximately 12 months on lees. The wine was then bottled and left to condition until its released.