“Terrific Rhone Blend!” James Suckling

60% Marsanne, 20% Viognier, 20% Roussanne

This Rhone Valley blendis grown on gravel and sand to an extremely low yield. A blockbuster with off-the-charts aromas of honeyed quince and lemon verbena and so much more.While it promises beautiful aging potential, its flamboyance suggests you’ll likely enjoy it long before then. Richness and depth, reminiscent of a hot summer stroll through a Mediterranean herb garden, are followed by a creamy, mouth-filling texture and a lingering, spicy finish.

Vintage 2021

While our grapes thrive in Marlborough’s cool nights and sun-drenched days, the name pays homage to the Mistral wind of France, the homeland of these noble Rhne grape varieties. This brisk wind, cooling Rhne Valley vineyards, preserves grape acidity during scorching summers. In our sandy, gravelly soils, grapes soak up the sun by day and find solace in the cool nights of the growing season. The 2021 vintage, though one of our smallest, is of exceptional quality. A cool spring led to poor fruit set, and a hot, dry summer further reduced yields. This resulted in an early harvest of intensely aromatic and concentrated grapes.

Hans’ Winemaking Comments

The pristine fruit underwent cold maceration (skin contact) to extract complex compounds from the flesh, pulp, skins, and seeds, enhancing aromatic intensity, texture, and colour. The must of the Marsanne and Roussanne underwent a long, cool wild yeast co-fermentation, maturing in a single 500L French oak puncheon on fine lees for 18 months. The Viognier, fermented separately with the same natural approach, also aged in a puncheon for 18 months before blending. No fining (Vegan), no cold stabilization, and only coarse filtration to maintain purity and vibrancy.

Tasting Notes

This bold Rhne-inspired blend captivates with aromas of quince, apricot, and honeycomb, interwoven with delicate florals and wild Mediterranean herbs that evoke the fragrant landscapes of Provence. The wines minerality accentuates its exuberant fruit intensity, reminiscent of the famed Hermitage Blanc wines. Viognier lends decadent aromatic richness, Roussanne provides structure and depth, and Marsanne contributes texture and aging potential. This harmonious trio creates a powerhouse white with remarkable weight and complexity, culminating in a silky, lingering finish with a subtle spiciness. Vibrant acidity imparts freshness and longevity. (Team Tasting Feb 2025).

Technical Data

Variety 60% Marsanne, 20% Viognier, 20% Roussanne, Rootstock 101-14, RG Vines Planted Viognier, 1996, Marsanne & Roussanne, 2007 Soil Shallow (<45cm) well drained sandy and gravelly soil, developed from stony alluvium Plant Density 5,500 vines/ha Yield 2t/ha Alcohol 14% Residual Sugar < 1 g/L Ageing Potential 10 years Bottles Produced 940

Food Matching Suggestion

This versatile wine pairs beautifully with dishes that complement its texture and aromatic complexity. Enjoy with lobster in saffron butter, roasted poultry with creamy sauces, or a fragrant tagine with almonds and apricots. A delight with aged cheeses like Comt or a classic French Beaufort. Hans suggests that it’s equally delightful to enjoy a glass on its own to unwind -no food required.