Port Phillip Estate Sauvignon 2011
Tasting Notes
Vineyard
Port Phillip Estate Sauvignon Blanc is a single site wine produced from 0.65 hectares of estate vineyard. The block was planted in 1994 and is trained to the Scott Henry system.
Vintage
Much has been said about the 2010 – 2011 growing season. When the Eastern states of Australia’s decade-long drought broke in September of 2010, the rains were met with great relief. The cooler conditions delayed vine development and gave expected harvest timeframes more akin to historical averages. However the growing season weather patterns came to be shaped by a strong La Niña, which meant Spring and Summer rains were frequent and significant, increasing the time demands on our viticulture team. This season we employed a number of techniques in the vineyard not used for a number of years, including leaf plucking to improve ventilation and sunlight interception in the fruit zone. Surprisingly, fruit set was good and cropping levels quite moderate despite the lack of heat and high humidity during flowering. The ripening period was cool and extended and has produced fragrant and delicate white wines, and Pinot Noirs with attractively ripe tannins, balanced natural acidity and elegant, savoury fruit.
Winemaking
The fruit is whole bunch pressed and fermented without yeast inoculation, in stainless steel and 15% old French barriques. The wine is left sur lie for 4 months prior to bottling.
Wine Analysis
Alcohol – 13.0%
Tasting Note - December 2011
Bright pale straw colour. A nose of crushed nettles, blackcurrant bud and apple blossom leads into a palate which has crunchy minerality, fresh grassy mouth aromas, granny smith appley flavours and a tiny bit of sur lie character lending the wine weight. Approachable, fresh and cheerful.
Tasting Notes
Port Phillip Estate Sauvignon 2011
Reviews
Note - these wines are for the 2011 Port Phillip Estate Sauvignon Blanc
THE AGE EPICURE, 24th May 2011
This quietly complex, pale Mornington Peninsula sauvignon blanc shows how skilfully applied barrel influence and winemaking art add dimension to an oft-maligned variety. Juicy lime, herb, almondy lees and earthy oak aromas lead into a savoury, chalky-dry mouthful of lovely seamless flow, finishing lingering and fragrant. 4 1/2 stars $$
RALPH KYTE POWELL
FRESH – THE WEST AUSTRALIAN, 19th May 2011
A nice alternative style to the Kiwi savvies. Has some subtle snow pea and light herbaceousness. The fruit is crisp and fresh with a lively sustaining acidity. Easy current drinking and nice with food. 88/100.
RAY JORDAN