Downes Sauvignon Blanc 2022

The focus of this wine is based on a vineyard component arising from low yielding Table Mountain Sandstone soils. Using neutral
yeasts, Downes Sauvignon Blanc expresses very distinctive and concentrated primary fruit aromas of asparagus, citrus, and some
capsicum in a minerally and flinty style. The clay/shale soils however, provide the Sauvignon Blanc with flavours on the riper side of the fruit spectrum and with more structure for a broader palate. The blending in of naturally fermented Sauvignon Blanc, matured on the lees, provides a fuller mouth feel and adds to the complexity of the wine. This wine was vinified in a style that enhances the aging potential of Sauvignon Blanc.

The grapes are chilled to 3°C. The bunches are sorted on a conveyor, destemmed and crushed. All transfers of grape must and juice in these early stages are attained using gravity. Selected parcels of the grapes undergo a period of skin contact, at 8°C to encapture favourable skin flavours. After a gentle pressing, the juice is left to settle for a period of 72 hours at 2°C. Fermentation in stainless steel tanks continues at 12°C until the wine is dry.