White Wine Movia Sivi Grigio Ambra 2021. Those who love wines with interesting flavours will enjoy this unusual orange wine from Slovenia which is crafted from late harvested Pinot Grigio grapes. The grapes are harvested by hand and transported immediately to the winery to preserve freshness where they are vinified in large tanks with wild yeasts. The young wine is then transferred to oak barrels for a lengthy 18 month maturation period. This approach to winemaking helps to create a characterful orange wine with immense ageing potential. On the nose there are intense hints of honeysuckle, dried apricot and bitter almonds while the palate is remarkably complex with layers of ripe tropical fruit, dried herbs and green walnuts. The medium body, gentle tannins and bright freshness make this a versatile gastronomic wine which can pair perfectly with everything from meatballs served in a rich tomato sauce to pan-fried tuna steaks or creamy cheeses. The Movia winery is set in western Slovenia’s Goriška Brda region close to the border with Italy where the Mediterranean climate is ideal for producing quality wines. Founded as far back as 1700, the estate has been in the hands of the Kristančič family since 1820 and today comprises 18 hectares of which half lie across the border in Italy.
2021
White Wine Movia Sivi Grigio Ambra 2021
White Wine Domaine des Berthiers JC Dagueneau Pouilly Fume 2021. The Fournier family has been making wine in the village of Verdigny in Sancerre for generations. In 1955 they acquired the Domaine des Berthiers in the Pouilly Fume region which was previously owned by the well-known winemaker Jean-Claude Dagueneau. The estate’s vineyards sit on well-drained soils and excellent exposure on hillsides overlooking the Loire River. The grapes for this wine are sourced from plots planted at the foot of the hill of Saint-Andelain. In order to produce incredibly pure Sauvignon Blanc wines which speak of the local terroir, the family vinify the grape must slowly over the course of 3-4 weeks and the wine is then aged on the fine lees for six months to add extra complexity and character. This helps to create an opulent Pouilly Fume which has the characteristic flinty or minerally character of the appellation along with plenty of balancing freshness and citrus and tropical fruit notes. The smoky notes and intense fruit character of this sublime Pouilly Fume make an excellent partner for grilled sole fillets, pan-fried salmon, or leafy summer salads. It also makes for a stunning aperitif served well-chilled alongside salted almonds, olives, and light canapes.
2021
White Wine Rapaura Springs Sauvignon Blanc 2021. This classic Kiwi Sauvignon Blanc is crisp and punchy with ample ripe tropical fruit and gooseberry notes on the nose. Renowned Master of Wine Bob Campbell wrote that “it practically defines Marlborough Sauvignon”, and it’s easy to see why from the mouthwatering freshness, grassy aromatic notes and ripe mango, lychee and zesty lemon flavours. The easy-going, zingy nature of this wine make it a great choice to serve as an aperitif, and it also pairs beautifully with leafy salads, asparagus dishes, and fresh seafood and fish. Rapaura Springs in Marlborough has a reputation for producing exceptional Sauvignon and has previously been awarded New Zealand Winery of the Year 2015 and a trophy for World’s Best Sauvignon. The winery was founded by the Neylon family who established a successful mussel farm and factory in Marlborough before purchasing their first vineyard in 2003. They soon began supplying local wineries including the famed Oyster Bay. Today the family grows and sources grapes from all of Marlborough’s unique sub-regions which allows them to produce a comprehensive range of wines. The family’s philosophy is to produce the highest quality grapes possible and adopt a minimalist touch in the winery so the true varietal character and influence of the terroir can shine through.
2021