Te Whare Ra, under the stewardship of Anna and John Forrest, stands as a pioneering estate in Marlborough, committed to organic and biodynamic viticulture. Their 2023 Sauvignon Blanc exemplifies a deliberate and sophisticated approach, diverging from the region's more overtly aromatic styles to prioritise complexity and textural depth. Sourced from their meticulously farmed vineyards within the Wairau Valley, the fruit benefits from a unique microclimate and ancient riverbed soils, which impart a distinctive mineral backbone to the wine. Winemaking involves a thoughtful regimen, often incorporating a portion of barrel fermentation and extended lees contact to build structure and nuance, culminating in a wine of remarkable precision and age-worthiness.
Tasting notes
The 2023 Te Whare Ra Sauvignon Blanc presents a pale straw hue with subtle green reflections. The aromatic profile is sophisticated and layered, revealing notes of ripe citrus, particularly grapefruit and lime zest, intertwined with delicate hints of fresh garden herbs, wet stone, and a whisper of white blossom. On the palate, it is remarkably precise and textural, underpinned by a vibrant acidity that frames a core of concentrated fruit. Flavours of passionfruit pith, gooseberry, and a saline minerality are evident, leading to a long, dry finish that is both refreshing and intellectually engaging. This is a Sauvignon Blanc of exceptional balance and profound typicity, showcasing Marlborough's potential for elegance and depth.