COLOUR
White
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2021
GRAPE
Sauvignon Blanc
PRODUCER
Cloudy Bay Vineyards
REGION
Marlborough
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Medium - Full
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
Medium - High
Finish
Medium - Long
Intensity
Pronounced
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
Cloudy Bay Te Koko is a 2021 Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand, produced by Cloudy Bay Vineyards. It distinguishes itself through a winemaking approach that includes fermentation in French oak barrels using indigenous yeasts and extended aging on fine lees. This process contributes to its unique texture and complexity, setting it apart from more conventional expressions of the grape. The wine originates from older vines in the Wairau Valley, an area known for its free-draining gravel soils, which are conducive to producing wines of character. Cloudy Bay Vineyards, established in 1985, aims to 'bottle the essence of the region,' a philosophy that guides their production of wines that highlight Marlborough's natural attributes.
ALCOHOL
13.5%
AVG. PRICE
€63
STYLE
Classic
SULPHITES
NO
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
10-12°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
Te Koko was one of the first premium Sauvignon Blancs from New Zealand.
Fact 02
Indigenous yeasts are used for fermentation, adding a wilder character.
Fact 03
The wine spends 15 months aging on fine lees.
Fact 04
It's a deliberate contrast to more overtly fruity Sauvignon Blanc styles.
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The 2021 Cloudy Bay Te Koko is produced using 100% Sauvignon Blanc grapes sourced from older vines in Marlborough's Wairau Valley. A key aspect of its production is fermentation in French oak barrels, utilizing indigenous yeasts. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on fine lees for an extended period of 15 months. This extended lees contact is a significant technique that contributes to the wine's texture and complexity. The grapes are hand-handled, and harvesting occurs at night to ensure optimal fruit quality. The wine is then matured in Cloudy Bay's cellars before release.
