The Sophisticat, Adelaide Hills 2018

Vintage Conditions

Though 2017 was a late, cool and sometimes damp season, it ended with lower than average rainfall for the late season. Above average rainfall in July and August filled soil profiles and dams but from then on the season has been very dry. It is this dry weather that characterised the 2018 season and the low disease pressure coupled with ideal conditions for flowering and early development set the vines up for an excellent season. With virtually no rainfall between January and April, fruit quality in all areas was very good though some heat stress in February led to isolated defoliation. As we like to pick ‘on the way up’ our season began quickly with several varieties ripening at once but then progressed nicely, with the ability to pick when it suited given the settled weather.

Viticulture

Fruit was sourced from one single vineyard, close to our winery at Lenswood in the Adelaide Hills. Close planted vines with moderate vigour allow for ample fruit shading and long growing seasons, leading to complex, well balanced fruit.

Winemaking

Once picked, the fruit was immediately processed at the winery, benefitting from low overnight temperatures. Crushed and pressed then settled for an extended period prior to a long, cool fermentation to maximise fruit expression.

Tasting

A crisp, tangy white wine with enticing floral bouquet, hints of elderflower, gooseberry and blackcurrant leaf. The palate is youthful, pithy and bright with mouthwatering grapefruit, gooseberry and grapefruit leading through to a long, refreshing finish.

Blend:Sauvignon Blanc 86.6%, Semillon 12.8% & Arneis/ Petit Manseng 0.6% 
Alcohol: 12%
Total Acidity: 6.5g/l
pH: 3.24
Residual Sugar: <1g/l
SO2: 106mg/l
Fining:
Vegan:
Vegetarian: