2018 Barrel Fermented Sauvignon

Gloriously complete with the same structure as a fine white burgundy(!) and beautifully smooth, ripe (but not at all sweet) Sauvignon Blanc fruit kept in check. A massive bargain for such a sophisticated wine. Good but not aggressive acidity and the nose is more of a barrel-fermented white than very obviously a Sauvignon. Other vintages of this wine were wines of the week in 2018 and in 2021 . (JR)

The 2018 Sauvignon Blanc Barrel Fermented has opened since I last tasted it, now feeling less reduced, with lovely kiwi fruit and nettle aromas. The well-balanced palate offers a dab of sour lemon and still that smear of dried honey on the finish.

A beautiful, round and layered nose, created by oxidative winemaking techniques, the 2018 Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc begins with elements of grilled lemon, pineapple skin, citrus blossom and hints of vanilla and graham cracker on the nose. Medium-bodied, there is an elegant and creamy texture to the wine. The mid-palate reveals energetic acidity and round expressions from being barrel fermented in oak and the soft mineral tension from concrete eggs. The wine lingers delightfully long, with a winding finish that will please the Napa Sauvignon Blanc drinker. Bravo!