2009 MadFish Sideways Sauvignon Blanc Semillon Tasting Notes

The 2009 vintage has been a challenging but ultimately rewarding vintage. A dry winter was followed by a cold and wet spring, just as flowering was in full swing. Thus grape yields were down and disease pressure was increased. However the ripening season was moderately warm, dry and even; perfect for ripening grapes with great natural acidity and fresh tight fruit flavours.
 
The blend for the first Sideways Sauvignon Blanc Semillon is typical Margaret River. The Sauvignon Blanc makes up 2/3rds of the blend and is the aromatic and juicy core of the wine. These components are sourced from predominantly southern vineyards in the Margaret River region. The Semillon adds texture and structure with its citrus acidity and lemony fruit characters and comes from vineyards to the north and south of Margaret River.

The Sauvignon Blanc and most Semillon components are unwooded, with fermentation occurring in stainless steel tanks at cool temperatures to preserve aromatics. Barrel fermentation of Semillon (at approximately 10% of the final volume) has added complexity and mouth-feel. All components were kept separate and blended to produce a wine of outstanding primary Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon fruit characters.

The wine is pale with green hues.  The aroma is typical Margaret River Sauvignon Blanc Semillon; passionfruit, guava, lemon and bay  leaf/herbal characters with some smoky barrel ferment complexity. The barrel fermentation also adds a creamy, waxy middle palate texture and the citrus edge to the acidity keeps the wine balanced. The finish is long and clean with lingering lemon curd and guava characters.

This youthful wine is designed to be an antidote the NZ Sauvignon Blanc style: it has weight and texture due to fruit weight not sugar and acid. Thus it will suit a range of moderately flavoured foods, especially shellfish and Asian flavours. Try with your next dim sum.

Designed to be enjoyed in its youth but will reward a year or two of patience.