Sauvignon Blanc, Rippon

From the estate’s schist-based gravel soils, the Rippon Sauvignon Blanc is an entirely different beast from what we think of as the Kiwi standard. Grown from the vines planted between 1987 and 1993, the berries are whole-cluster pressed, then the juice is racked and settled on the fine lees in a combination of stainless and neutral French oak [60/40], not for the oak, but for the form of the vessel itself. Mouthfeel is gained here by high lees to wine contact and a more efficient natural lees stirring across unhurried wild ferments.

90 points, Vinous ‘From the world’s most southerly wine region, Central Otago, Rippon’s ’20 Sauvignon Blanc speaks of texture and tenderness rather than fruity flamboyance. Yes, there are subtle green notes alongside ripe mango, but there’s also a suggestion of white flowers from wild fermentation. The use of barrels as well as lees contact has imbued a gentle roundness to this full-bodied, supple Sauvignon. The finish is calm and gently structured, making for a quiet conclusion.’