MISHA'S VINEYARD The Starlet Sauvignon Blanc, Central Otago
Misha’s Vineyard is located on a spectacular site in New Zealand on the edge of Lake Dunstan in the Bendigo sub-region of Central Otago. The sun-drenched, north-west facing terraces of the 57 hectare estate provide optimal conditions for producing world-class Pinot Gris. A ‘no compromise’ philosophy requires exacting viticulture regimes, hand-picking, and considerate winemaking methodologies.
The fruit for this wine is hand-picked and whole bunch pressed. The free run and early press portion (70%) is handled anaerobically – settled, racked, inoculated and then cool fermented in stainless steel without air contact. The remaining juice portion is handled more oxidatively and spends time in older French oak barrels where it goes through a spontaneous ferment.
Blending the two components contributes complexity to both the flavour and texture of the finished wine, which typically shows exotically fragrant aromas of elderflower, lime and passionfruit and a rounded palate with tropical fruits and pineapple notes balanced by fresh citrus acidity.
Attractive sauvignon blanc with citrus, floral, orange blossom and subtle tropical fruit flavours. Appealing purity and a perfect balance of sweetness and fruity acidity. A charming Central Otago sauvignon.
93 points, The Real Review (December 2019)
Offering purity and poise, this charming sauvignon shows Granny Smith apple, feijoa, kaffir lime and lemon peel aromas on the nose. The palate is equally appealing with bright fruit intensity and juicy fruit flavours, brilliantly supported by vibrant acidity. It’s flavoursome and lingering with a lovely textural mouthfeel.
93 points, Wine Orbit (December 2019)
An almost sensual bouquet of SB with aromas of sweet minerals, white flowers and luscious citrus fruits. Next come the varietal kick that can only be the pungency and herbaceous side of the variety. A light salty note completes the bouquet. On the palate - tense, tart, fruity, youthful and dry. Flavours immediately reflect the fresh herbs and ripe citrus. Whispers of tropical fruit and white flowers. Great structure with high acidity, moderate alcohol all rolled into a light-weight package. Lovely wine - drinking well now and through 2022. Should cellar and develop some great secondary characters overtime.
93 point, Cameron Douglas, Master Sommelier (December 2019)
Central Otago, located at the southern end of the South Island of New Zealand, is the world’s most southerly wine region. In a short amount of time, the area has established itself as a world-class region for Pinot Noir. The picturesque region is surrounded by mountains ensuring a cool semi-continental climate that experiences a large diurnal range contributing to the creation of intensely concentrated wines with perfume, and complexity. Central Otago’s vineyard area is divided into six distinct sub regions each with their own climate and wine style. Best known for producing intensely Fruity medium to full bodied Pinot Noir, Central Otago’s cool climate also produces outstanding Riesling as well as superb bottle-fermented Sparkling wines.
