The 2022 South Oaks Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc from Auntsfield Estate is a beautifully textured and refined expression of Marlborough’s Southern Valleys, showcasing both the region’s pioneering history and its continued innovation. Auntsfield proudly carries the legacy of Marlborough’s first vineyard and winery, established in 1892, and remains family-owned and operated with an unwavering commitment to site-expressive wines. Their Single Block collection represents the pinnacle of this philosophy, wines crafted from small, distinctive parcels that consistently produce fruit of exceptional character and depth.
The South Oaks block, a mere two hectares nestled at the southernmost, elevated edge of the estate, lies beside a stand of old oak trees and is defined by its unique, free-draining soils of crushed Greywacke rock. This terroir lends a distinct mineral tension and linear structure to the wine, setting it apart from classic Marlborough styles.
In the glass, the 2022 South Oaks Sauvignon Blanc is fragrant and evocative, offering layers of rock melon, mandarin peel, and lime leaf, intertwined with dry herbs, nougat, and a stony slate character. On the palate, it is taut, fresh, and impeccably balanced, combining dense fruit weight with vibrant acidity and a chalky minerality that drives the wine through to an elegant, sustained finish. The mouthfeel is seamless and intense, offering both power and finesse.
