Cape Crest Sauvignon Blanc, Hawke’s Bay — 2020
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Introduction
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Since 1984, Cape Crest has developed an international following for its unique expression of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Cape Crest and its gannet symbol refer to Cape Kidnappers, the southern point of Hawke’s Bay, home to the world’s largest mainland colony of these remarkable marine birds.
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Vineyard Profile
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The fully ripe grapes for Cape Crest 2020 were hand harvested from individual plots within Te Mata Estate’s vineyards in the Bridge Pa Triangle sub-region between February 26 and March 5, 2020.
- Appellation: Hawke's Bay
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Vinification
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The separate parcels were each destemmed and lightly crushed, then cooled before a brief period of skin contact. Following pressing and cold-settling, they were run to a mixture of new and seasoned French oak barrels for fermentation. The resulting wines were aged on lees, with regular stirring, for a further 11 months before bottling in February 2021.
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 85% Sauvignon Blanc, 9% Semillon, 6% Sauvignon Gris
- Alcohol: 13%
- TA: 7.0 g/L
- p H: 3.1
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Tasting Notes
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The 2020 is a remarkable Cape Crest; palest lemon and brilliant in the glass. Luscious citrus and succulent stone fruit slide effortlessly towards a precise and lingering finish of gooseberry, lime and sea salt. Among all the ripe and pure fruit on the palate floats crunchy acidity and complexing grace-notes of dill, coriander, beeswax and woodsmoke. Cape Crest Sauvignon Blanc 2020 is a signature example, with drive, moreish appeal and elegance to spare.
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Images
Reviews
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Cape Crest Sauvignon Blanc, Hawke’s Bay — 2020 – Vinous – 90 Points
"The 2020 Cape Crest offers nutty and flinty notes alongside nectarine, black currants, custard apple and citrus flavors. A little more than light in body, there's also a light grainy texture and a hint of sea salt on the fresh, balanced finish. A very appetizing, well-crafted style."
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Cape Crest Sauvignon Blanc, Hawke’s Bay — 2020 – Wine Enthusiast – 93 Points
"This vintage is as deftly crafted as the last but is more tightly wound when first opened. Give it air and only a quick chill to allow the citrus, dried tarragon, white blossoms and cream to shine. The acidity is bracing and the oak shows a bit on the palate, but overall there's beautiful length, texture and flavor depth on this well-structured wine."