Walnut Block

Walnut Block is the vision of two brothers, Clyde and Nigel Sowman, who have joined together to create a range of wines reflecting their collective experience and passions. As of 2010, the winery is practicing organic and will receive certification in 2013.

Situated in the renowned Wairau Valley, Walnut Block Wines takes its name from the landmark walnut tree within the vineyard itself. The 17 hectare vineyard is located on the Wairau Valley plains, a dry ancient river bed which has created a prime growing area for great wines, particularly intense aromatic Sauvignon Blanc.

Walnut Block sources all of its grapes from its privately owned vineyard, which has been established for 10 years. Only the best parcels of grapes are selected to make Walnut Block Wines. The vineyard lies on soils ranging from shallow stony soils to alluvial sand and clay giving a great scope for developing the complexity that Walnut Block wines show.

Sauvignon Blanc Collectables

The belief that the vineyard is the key to a great wine is at the core of Walnut Block. Labor intensive, organic vineyard methods produce consistent, exceptional fruit quality; the use of traditional winemaking techniques and attention to preserving delicate flavors & aromas. Among the vines stands the region’s oldest walnut tree, and to pay homage, the Collectables label depicts an adaptation of the 1898 Kiwi New Zealand stamp. Both the planting of the tree and the release of the stamp occurred over 100 years ago and celebrate the unique Kiwi history and roots of Walnut Block.

The fruit is grown on 3 cane VSP, lightly leaf plucked to give good sunlight and airflow to ensure healthy fruit. Controlled yield through shoot thinning. Harvested during the cool of night to maintain freshness and flavors. The grapes are de-stemmed and pressed, then slowly fermented in stainless steel at a cool temperature using carefully selected yeast. Extended yeast lees contact adds weight and texture to the palate. After four months in tank the wine is racked, lightly fined and filtered and hit with sulfur dioxide then bottled.

Reviews:
Price: