2006 MadFish Sauvignon Blanc Semillon Tasting Notes

Grape ripening across the entire south west of WA in 2006 was defined by the extraordinary weather of late spring in 2005 with all early growth stages such as flowering and fruit set delayed by, in many cases, up to 4 weeks. The cool summer did not allow the vines to catch up to any extent with ripening being later than ever experienced before. The cool and mild conditions produced tighter and more elegant whites with Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon being the outstanding varieties. The fruit for this blend was sourced from vineyards in the cooler climate regions of the lower south west of Western Australia. The wine is unwooded, with fermentation occurring in stainless steel tanks and then bottled at an early age. A low temperature, protective regime was adopted during its production, thereby preserving the finer fruit characters of these aromatic varieties.

The wine is very pale with green hues. The aroma and palate profiles are driven very much by cool climate Sauvignon Blanc characters; grassy, herbal extending to slightly tropical notes. The Semillon provides some mid palate intensity as well as some attractive floral characters. The feature of the wine is the freshness, vitality and brightness of the palate – very clean and pure in its flavours and mouthfeel with crisp and refreshing acidity. The finish is dry and clean.

This wine is designed to be drunk in its youth. The clean, pure fruit flavours and fresh, vibrant structure are particularly delicious when young.