Te Muna Sauvignon Blanc: A Masterpiece of Complexity and Elegance
Te Muna Sauvignon Blanc is a masterpiece of complexity and elegance—a mature expression that transcends the typical vibrancy of a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. This wine captures the essence of Te Muna’s unique terroir, characterised by its refined aromatics, mineral-driven profile, and sophisticated structure.
Aromatic Profile and Terroir Influence
Unlike the overt tropical fruit and fresh herbaceous notes that Marlborough is known for, Te Muna’s Sauvignon Blanc is marked by ripe citrus and dried herb aromas. The aromatics are elevated, pure, and salivating, providing a mineral-driven complexity. This distinct profile results from the valley’s unique terroir. The significant diurnal temperature variation intensifies the aromatic profile and backbone of the Sauvignon Blanc, contributing to its remarkable intensity and freshness.
Cultivation: Tradition Meets Innovation
The cultivation of Te Muna Sauvignon Blanc blends tradition and innovation. Unlike the vigorous, leafy canopies typical of Sauvignon Blanc, Te Muna’s harsher climate, combined with diligent vineyard management, results in smaller, more open canopies that allow for dappled light and good fruit exposure. This ensures the vine’s energy is directed toward the fruit instead of the canopy, resulting in lower yields and higher-quality grapes. Handpicking a portion of the Sauvignon Blanc allows for whole-bunch pressing and barrel fermentation—techniques that add layers of complexity to the wine.
Winemaking Process: Intricate and Diverse Techniques
The winemaking process for Te Muna Sauvignon Blanc is an intricate art. Each parcel of fruit from select blocks is managed and harvested individually, reflecting its specific growing conditions and characteristics. Some grapes are fermented in large French oak barrels, while others are aged in sandstone tanks or Austrian oak foudres. These diverse fermentation and aging techniques contribute to the wine’s depth and complexity.
Crafting the Perfect Sauvignon Blanc
By blending these various components—over 50 parcels that have been picked, processed, and fermented differently—Craggy Range crafts a Sauvignon Blanc that is greater than the sum of its parts and the purest reflection of Te Muna’s terroir. It is a Sauvignon Blanc of refined aromatics, mineral salinity, and sophisticated complexity.
Winemaker’s Vision
“We strive to achieve a sophisticated style of Sauvignon Blanc with ripe citrus flavors and a bright, pristine purity to the wine.” – Ben Tombs, Chief Winemaker
