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Nautilus Estate wines were first released in
1986. Since then, the viticultural focus has
been on Marlborough where two exceptional
estate owned vineyards complement the small
coterie of contract growers.
Nautilus Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is
regarded as one of New Zealand's most
consistent premium quality Sauvignon Blancs.
Since 1994, the wine has won 2 trophies and 6
gold medals in National and International
wine competitions.
Nautilus Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is pale straw in colour and shows aromas of gooseberry and limes with hints of red capsicum and nettles. On the palate melon, passionfruit and citrus flavours predominate. The wine has excellent weight and intensity and the typical Marlborough 'zing' gives extension to the finish. Delicious now this wine will continue to develop over the next six to twelve months. The spring of 2002 was cold with a couple of frost events and generally cool weather resulting in a poor set. Right from the start we were dealing with below average cropping levels. The summer period was dry and by the end of the season the accumulated growing degree days were close to the long term average. The Sauvignon Blanc harvest began on the 26th of March and finished on the 16th April. This was an earlier start and a shorter 'harvest window' than normal and a reflection of the generally lower yields.
The 2003 Nautilus Sauvignon Blanc is blended from grapes sourced from our own Renwick, Opawa and Awatere River Vineyards and from five selected quality growers. Each of these vineyards contributes unique aroma and flavour characters to the Nautilus blend.
The fruit was machine harvested at night, or in the cool of the morning, gently crushed and processed then fermented with a variety of aromatic yeast strains - the sole aim being to reflect and preserve the flavours and aromas grown in the vineyard.
Vintage Information
Vintage: 2003
Alc/Vol: 12.5 %
Total Acid: 7.3 g/L
pH: 3.15
Residual Sugar: 3.6 g /L
PRESS REVIEWS/AWARDS
Reviews of 2002 Nautilus Sauvignon Blanc
90 points. Intensely aromatic, a bit more restrained on the palate. Has a lovely balance of floral green berry, lime and grapefruit flavours, tangy with acidity on the finish. Drink now.
Wine Spectator - November 2002
Gold medal. New Zealand South Island Sauvignon Blanc Awards
