The Doctors 9.5 Sauvignon Blanc 2009
2009 was very much decided by how much faith you put in research by Dr Mike Trought and his colleagues of the Marlborough Wine Research Centre on predicting the next vintages crop, 10 months before harvest. We had been observing the development of the crop prediction model and had the faith! – The model predicted a 30-40% increase in the number of bunches of grapes. This knowledge allowed us to drastically reduce the number of buds laid down at winter pruning; hence reduce the number of shoots that grew in spring, reducing the numbers flowers and bunches per vine, therefore our crop at harvest was, (a modest 7-8 ton/Ha). For those that did not heed the warning, the season involved endless rounds of crop reduction procedures, a costly exercise mostly down by hand or those who choose to do nothing produced excess yields of below average quality fruit (and who wanted that after the record 2008 vintage)!!
Climatically the growing season was wonderful, just the right amount of rain in spring, summer sunshine, then a dry cooler autumn harvest. In fact the weather during harvest was so good that I was often heard saying that vintage 2009 was boring!! Where had the adrenalin rush of impending doom, gone over harvest? All in all, one of the best vintages in the last 10 years right across our range of grapes.
Dr John Forrest’s love of innovation and experimentation were tested in his attempts to produce this lower alcohol, yet full flavoured Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. Careful selection of Sauvignon Blanc clones, vineyard site and microclimate, where these chosen vines were grown, has resulted in this innovative wine.
Tasting Notes
Blackcurrant, lime and passion fruit aromas abound on the nose of this appealing wine. Punchy, ripe and crisp on the palate with impressive richness, body and a refreshing finish. A modest 9.5% alcohol, yet so drinkable, for lunchtime or anytime. |
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