Winemaker Notes
The Sauvignon Blanc from the Henry's Drive vineyards was of extremely high quality in 2008 – it greatly contributes to the fresh lively aromas of limes, grapefruit, kiwi fruit, spicy fennel and a touch of grassiness found in the 2008 Pillar Box White. The Verdelho expresses itself through a little pineapple and lychee fruit, as well as textural complexity on the palate, while the Chardonnay impacts on palate weight and the overall smoothness of the wine. The palate displays characteristic Sauvignon Blanc crispness and flinty mineral acidity, an attractive depth of fruit flavor and a persistent finish.
This wine is ideally served at slightly chilled on its own, or as a great accompaniment to soft cheeses, seafood or chicken dishes.
With hundreds of white grape varieties to choose from, winemakers have the freedom to create a virtually endless assortment of blended white wines. In many European regions, strict laws are in place determining the set of varieties that may be used in white wine blends, but in the New World, experimentation is permitted and encouraged. Blending can be utilized to enhance balance or create complexity, lending different layers of flavors and aromas. For example, a variety that creates a soft and full-bodied white wine blend, like Chardonnay, would do well combined with one that is more fragrant and naturally high in acidity. Sometimes small amounts of a particular variety are added to boost color or aromatics. Blending can take place before or after fermentation, with the latter, more popular option giving more control to the winemaker over the final qualities of the wine.
