Villa Maria Reserve Clifford Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2023

The influences of the more southerly Awatere Valley and the Clifford Bay’s cooling effect are immediately apparent here with powerful aromas of blackcurrants, wild grass and fresh lime. It has a generous, fleshy mouth-feel and a long, steely finish.

The fruit used for this blend is grown in vineyards with coastal Awatere subregion near the Pacific Ocean at the most easterly point of Marlborough, hence the namesake "Clifford Bay". 40% Taylors Pass; 24% Roberts; 20% Blackbirch; 15% Seaspray

The vineyards are exposed to cool southerly winds that influence a long, slow growing season with grapes retaining high natural acidities and retaining pungent green characters.

100% stainless steel fermentation using selected aromatic and textural yeast strains. Carefully monitored for a period of time on lees to help build palate weight and texture.