On the nose, the wine is unusually open and giving, engaging the taster immediately. However, rather than rushing out of the glass, this is a more measured introduction, luring you in. Notes of small black cherries, violets, graphite, spice and a little pepper introduce themselves one by one, all in perfect detail. On the palate, there is a gear change,...

95% Sauvignon Blanc, 5% Sémillon. Barrel sample. Slightly cloudy. Keen and fresh. Lemon-citrus fragrance with a chalky edge. Sweet touch on attack indicates maturity, thereafter the palate is long, linear, and direct. More restrained than Grand Village but great harmony and persistence. Just goes on and on. Class act and a long, long way from varietal Sauvignon. JR