Nautilus have earned much praise from reviewers the world over for their salient countenance of Sauvignon Blanc. Since inaugural release, the viticultural focus has been on Marlborough where five choice estate vineyards complement a small coterie of the most highly dedicated, expert growers. Sustainable land management is a core consideration, healthy land will deliver a harvest of good fruit, Nautilus are passionate in their endeavours to yield a quality of Sauvignon Blanc which sings about the environment whence it originates.
An assemblage of fruit grown to the Lanark Lane and Opawa, Kaituna and Awatere Estate Vineyards, vinified alongside parcels from local quality growers. Each site contributes unique expressions, from topical capsicum and nettle in the early blocks, to luscious lychee and passionfruit from the later harvests. Grapes are harvested at night or throughout the cool of morning, beginning with the early ripening blocks and finishing in Awatere Valley. Fruit is gently crushed, pressed and fermented to a variety of aromatic yeasts, the aim being to preserve flavours and aromas developed in the vineyard. Upon completion, the wine was held on lees for several months, enhancing creaminess and infusing flavours.
TASTING NOTESPale straw in colour. Fragrant with characters of lime zest and passionfruit, fresh coriander and wet stones. A mouthwatering yet smoothly integrated palate reveals notes of grapefruit, tahitian lime and a strong textural component. A fine mid palate concentration and zingy finish, delicious upon release alongside schnapper and avocado salsa.