Wine: Seven Terraces: Sauvignon Blanc

Marlborough

Situated in the north eastern edge of the South Island, Marlborough includes the inland Kaikoura Ranges, which reach an elevation of near 3000 meters. Marlborough is the largest production area in New Zealand representing over 50 % of the national harvest. When the first modern day vine was planted in 1973, few people thought the region would become what it is today. On an international scale, Marlborough is the most famous and widely recognized wine-producing region in New Zealand.

It is a viticultural heaven with silty, gravel strewn alluvial loams of the Wairau and Awatere Valleys. The soils are free draining and with the abundant sunshine during the day, cool nights and long growing season, the region produces particularly vibrant fruity flavors in Sauvignon Blanc. The region also has an impeccable reputation for producing some of the best Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, plus top quality sparkling wine.

Climatically, Marlborough is one of the driest and sunniest regions of New Zealand. The average daily maximum temperature is near 80o F but the cool nights keep high levels of acidity in the grapes typically in harmony with sugar levels.

Climate and soil, foresight and daring, investment and innovation, land prices and luck – all have contributed to the emergence of Marlborough as one of the world’s most distinctive and exciting new wine regions. (credit Michael Cooper)

Seven Terraces

These wines are produced by renowned winemaker John Belsham in the Marlborough region of New Zealand. The fruit is sourced from a combination of John’s own vineyards and selected growers throughout Marlborough. This unique label was inspired by John’s spectacular vineyard in the Awatere Valley upon which seven (7) distinct terraces overlook the river.

Once you set foot on this beautiful property and soak up the dramatic river valley views you will appreciate how inspirational the site truly is. The hawk on the label represents this ever present guardian in the vineyards as he hunts the constant threat of grape eating smaller birds. We like to think of him as our unofficial mascot.

This wine is classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and exemplifies the regions now famous harmony between vibrant mineral, flinty elements and rich tropical nuances.
Produced from low yielding ripe fruit the wonderful, heady aromatics of ripe herbs flow through into the palate which exudes ripe guava and passion fruit flavours. These expressive and concentrated fruit notes are elegantly framed with a refreshingly crisp and dry finish to cleanse the palate.  100% Sauvignon Blanc.

88 points Tanzer IWC Oct 2008 2007 Sauvignon Blanc

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