On the south end of New Zealand's north island, Martinborough's drier climate lends more tropical notes to its Sauvignon Blancs and consistent ripeness to its Pinot Noirs. Long ago this land, like much of this region, was covered in scrub but thanks to the hard back-breaking work of men known in the day as swaggers this land was cleared and prepared for use. One of the most famous swaggers of this region was a man known simply as Russian Jack. These rich lands that are now covered in picturesque vineyards produce world class wines, thanks in part to the hard working nature of its people both past and present and this wine is named in the spirit of that tradition.

Tasting notes

Bursting with ripe blackcurrant and passion fruit characters this full-bodied Sauvignon Blanc shows excellent length and flavor with juicy acidity balancing the ripe fruit flavors on the palate.

Technical notes

The Sauvignon Blanc comes from the heavy soils of the Burnt Spur vineyard. A mix of winemaking techniques including some whole bunch pressing and natural fermentations were used to reflect and enhance the qualities in the grapes. The clear juice was cool fermented entirely in stainless steel tanks and left on its lees for three months to improve its structure and complexity. No oak treatment is used here.