《Cloudy Bay @ 2011 Sauvignon Blanc》

 The release of the Cloudy Bay 2011 Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc in true and consistent Cloudy Bay Style. A wine tasting was held in Hong Kong recently to unveil this latest fine production with the winemaker, Tim Heath. The 2011 Sauvignon Blanc promises more than just enticing lifted aromatics.  This wine has built a strong identity with its balance of aromatic intensity, acid structure and texture.  The 2011 release has particularly appealing mouth-feel.  Winemaker, Tim Heath commented, “We are particularly happy this year with mid-palate weight.  The wine has a sense of restrained texture.” Every season is distinct, creating each unique vintage, and the dedicated Cloudy Bay team are delighted with this year’s expression.

 

Jim White and Tim Heath, Cloudy Bay Viticulturist and Winemaker respectively, spent significant time together in the vineyard this year.  Crop levels were managed closely as the warm spring weather encouraged rapid shoot growth followed by high fruit set and strong bunch growth.  Judicious thinning was carried out throughout the season encouraging fruit of concentrated flavours and complete ripeness.  Jim White adds, “Quality of fruit is always at the forefront of our decisions.  We were particularly thankful this year that crop levels were managed so carefully as heavy rain arrived on the weekend of April 17^th causing chaos for those not as vigilant.”  Tim Heath seconds that, “The 2011 Sauvignon Blanc has a fine and succulent palate which we would have lost had the rain got to more of our fruit.  Our obsession with forecast charts paid off.” 

Using methods that date back to the earlier days of this iconic wine with small parcels of barrel ferment and the use of solids in fermentation. This limited use of very old French barriques adds a subliminal textural element to the wine without distracting from its purity and finesse. The 2011 Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc is a true expression of its vineyard and the Marlborough climate.  Aromatics impress, zippy acid delights, and the lingering palate leaves you yearning for more.