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Vidal Reserve Series 2010 Hawkes Bay Organic Sauvignon Blanc

The Reserve Series is a new series to Vidal. It sits between toe existing two tiers in the Vidal range. Fans of Vidal will also notice that they have changed the labels on their bottles. The reserve series have been developed with food in mind, and are aimed to compliment rather than dominate food.

The 2010 Vidal Reserve Series Hawkes Bay Organic Sauvignon Blanc that I am reviewing this week has been produced from organically grown grapes in Vidal's BioGro certified vineyard bordering the Gimblett Gravels. The vines were high density planted in 2002 on thin topsoil over Taupo pumice (Pakipaki) and Twyford silt loam soil types.

2010 had a warm summer in the Hawkes Bay, followed by a cool autumn. Meticulous attention to detail on vine and soil health, yield control and vine balance have meant that the fruit was picked at optimum flavour development and ripeness.

At the winery, the fruit was destemmed and gently pressed before the juice underwent cool fermentation. Lees aging of some components in tank and old French oak has added mid-palate weight and complexity.

I found this wine to exibit a bouquet of citrus and passionfruit with a hint of nectarine. On the palate I found flavours of citrus and passionfruit combined with hints of gooseberry and fresh herbs. It is more subtle than what we have come to expect from New Zealand (and in particular Marlborough) Sauvignon Blanc, meaning that it will compliment dishes like seafood linguine well.

It is a wine that is drinking well now but should also age gracefully.

Reviewed by Stephen Clark (4/7/2011)

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