Forefathers Sauvignon Blanc comes from a single vineyard on an eastern slope in the heart of Marlborough. The vineyard is situated east of the town of Blenheim, on the Hawkesbury River, and is comprised of a gravely loam soil which allows for good drainage, great exposure of the grape clusters, and long hang time. There is also good air change, which is the key to managing winter frosts and summer heat.
Forefathers wines have structure, intensity and complexity. Only ripe grapes with excellent maturity and well-developed flavors are selected. Ripeness means intensity of flavors and weight in the mouth. The fruit was harvested at night to avoid the heat of the day and immediately pressed off to separate juice and skins. Night harvesting promotes delicate and fruit-driven wines. Forefathers Sauvignon Blanc wine was tank fermented and left on lees to accentuate creaminess.
The 2011 vintage shows gooseberry and apricot aromas and flavors with a creamy mouthfeel. The finish gives excellent length and delivery.
Details
Total Cases: 1750
Harvest Dates:
Bottling Date:
Release Date:
Average Degree Brix: Titratable Acidity: 7.2 g/L pH at Bottling: 3.24
Alcohol Level: 13.0%
Blend/Composition: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Fermentation:
Aging:
Racked:
Taste & Character
Acidity: High
Oak: None
Ageability: Short (1-2 years)
Body: Medium
Winemaker's Notes
The key to Forefathers is balance and complexity with underlying power. Stylistically this wine trends to the warmer spectrum of peach and apricot and is less racy than other styles.