Winemaker Notes
Brightwater Vineyards is the premium boutique vineyard and winery of Gary and Valley Neale. Established in the early nineties, the winery has developed an award-winning reputation for premium, hand-crafted wines. All their grapes are grown on estate vineyards, within “five minutes by tractor” of the modern winery. They utilize a minimal intervention approach allowing the true expression of the vineyards to show and make distinctive wines that display true fruit character, elegance and fine balance.
In 2012 Brightwater Vineyards was named as “New Zealand Winemaker of the Year” and also “Nelson Supreme Business of the Year.” Thei success comes down to the passion and committment of their wonderful team, led by Tony and Dale.
Rolling hills evolve from a scenic coastline to form an ideal setting for Sauvignon Blanc vineyards. Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay rank in after New Zealand’s prized varietal as most widely planted in Nelson. The region is slightly cooler and has more precipitation on average compared to Marlborough.
Capable of a vast array of styles, Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp, refreshing variety that equally reflects both terroir and varietal character. Though it can vary depending on where it is grown, a couple of commonalities always exist—namely, zesty acidity and intense aromatics. This variety is of French provenance. Somm Secret—Along with Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc is a proud parent of Cabernet Sauvignon. That green bell pepper aroma that all three varieties share is no coincidence—it comes from a high concentration of pyrazines (herbaceous aromatic compounds) inherent to each member of the family.