Long recognised in New Zealand and Australia for it's consistent production of vital Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, the rest of the world is now catching on, as Stoneleigh has been added to the winelist at London's prestigious Ritz. Stoneleigh's vineyards are located at the northern end of the Wairau Valley in close proximity to the mighty Wairau River. Often referred to as the
Rapaura Series of soils, they are characterised by their relative youth, based on river silts and stones. Poor in nutrients and water retention, they yield intense fruit and vibrant wines.
Stoneleigh's vineyards are covered with smooth stones which reflect the sun's rays, enhancing the ripening process by day, whilst retaining warmth throughout the cool Marlborough nights. Clonally the Sauvignon Blanc is mainly mass selected on a mix of five main rootstocks these being SO4 and 3309, 101/14, RG and Schwarzmann. Grapes are harvested and treated to bag presses or tippy tanks. Juices are drained and pressed from skins to minimise excessive phenolic extraction, followed by a settling to remove solids. The bright, clear juices are then racked to inoculation by select aromatic yeast and fermentation at cool temperatures to retain the distinctive regional and varietal characters.
TASTING NOTESLight straw hues, subtle greens. Pungent sweaty aromas, lifted tropical fruit aromatics, passionfruits and ruby grapefruit most dominant. The palate features ripe melon and stone fruit flavours, complex minerality balanced by a tight, fresh acidity, a vibrant and lively wine. Best enjoyed while young and exuberant, slightly chilled with delicate white meat or the freshest seafood.