2022 South Oaks Sauvignon Blanc, Auntsfield
Marlborough, New Zealand
The 2022 South Oaks Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc from Auntsfield Estate is a beautifully textured and refined expression of Marlborough’s Southern Valleys, showcasing both the region’s pioneering history and its continued innovation. Auntsfield proudly carries the legacy of Marlborough’s first vineyard and winery, established in 1892, and remains family-owned and operated with an unwavering commitment to site-expressive wines. Their Single Block collection represents the pinnacle of this philosophy, wines crafted from small, distinctive parcels that consistently produce fruit of exceptional character and depth.
The South Oaks block, a mere two hectares nestled at the southernmost, elevated edge of the estate, lies beside a stand of old oak trees and is defined by its unique, free-draining soils of crushed Greywacke rock. This terroir lends a distinct mineral tension and linear structure to the wine, setting it apart from classic Marlborough styles.
In the glass, the 2022 South Oaks Sauvignon Blanc is fragrant and evocative, offering layers of rock melon, mandarin peel, and lime leaf, intertwined with dry herbs, nougat, and a stony slate character. On the palate, it is taut, fresh, and impeccably balanced, combining dense fruit weight with vibrant acidity and a chalky minerality that drives the wine through to an elegant, sustained finish. The mouthfeel is seamless and intense, offering both power and finesse.
Whats in the bottle
100% Sauvignon blanc
Notable Awards
96/100 Wine Orbit
Complete the look:
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Auntsfield Estate holds the distinction of being Marlborough’s first commercial vineyard and winery, initially established in 1873 by pioneering winemaker David Herd. Recognising the region’s potential, Herd planted his first grapes in 1892 and produced wine until he died in 1905. His son-in-law continued the legacy until 1931, marking over 50 years of esteemed winemaking.
In 1998, Graeme and Linda Cowley revitalised the historic estate, uncovering its rich winemaking heritage. They replanted the vineyard with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, cultivating approximately 65 acres on north-facing, glacially carved slopes with Greywacke rock and fine clay soils.
Their sons, Ben and Luc Cowley, have since taken the helm, with Ben overseeing viticulture and Luc managing winemaking. The Cowleys emphasise sustainable and organic farming practices, utilising native yeast fermentations to craft wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Southern Valleys. Notably, Auntsfield’s vineyards are situated in rolling hills rather than the valley floor, providing clay-rich soils that impart depth and complexity to their wines.
Today, Auntsfield Estate continues to honour its storied past while producing premium wines that showcase the distinctive character of Marlborough’s Southern Valleys.
The fruit is hand-picked, hand-sorted, then whole-bunch pressed. A proportion of juice is fermented on skins. Fermentation begins naturally (with vineyard indigenous yeast). The juice is fermented in large French oak vessels (500- 1300l). After fermentation, the wine is aged on yeast lees for 10 months.
Alcohol by Volume
13%
Vintage
2022
Country
New Zealand
Size
750ml
Types
White Wine
Producer
Auntsfield
Grape
Sauvignon Blanc
Region
Marlborough, South Island
2022 South Oaks Sauvignon Blanc, Auntsfield
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- New Zealand