Nutcracker Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Walnut Block

Tasting Notes

Handpicked from our oldest vines, this limited release Sauvignon Blanc displays delicacy and finesse while capturing the intense characters Marlborough is famous for. Concentrated aromas and flavours of tropical fruits and ripe citrus are revealed on a richly texture palate. Fine acidity gives the wine beautiful balance and length.

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Sauvignon Blanc

NEW ZEALAND

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Walnut Block Winery

About this product +

Producer >

Founded in 2005, Walnut Block is the vision of brothers, Clyde and Nigel Sowman with Clyde in managing the overall project and Nigel responsible for the development of the estate’s organically farmed vineyards. The first vines were planted in 1996 on the alluvial deposits of the renowned Wairau Valley in Marlborough where the combination of free draining soils, sunshine hours and temperate climate provide an excellent backdrop for the production of high quality, cool climate grapes that have both natural intense fruit flavours and refreshing acidity. For the whites, the Collectibles Sauvignon Blanc is fermented in stainless steel whilst the Nutcracker Sauvignon is made 70:30 tank and barrel and the Nutcracker Chardonnay is fermented and aged in 500 litre demi-muids. Open top fermenters are used for the reds with further ageing in French barriques, 9 months for the Collectibles and 12 months for the Nutcracker.

Viticulture >

Certified Organic by BioGro New Zealand. Located in Marlborough’s premium Rapaura sub region the grapes are grown on the Scott Henry divided canopy system which provides excellent sunlight penetration without leaf plucking. The vines are shoot thinned to maintain low yields and ensure even ripening.

Winemaking >

The grapes are handpicked then gently whole bunched pressed. 30% is fermented in old barrel using wild yeasts giving the wine greater depth and complexity. 70% is fermented in stainless steel using cultured yeast to capture the lively fresh aromas and fruit purity. Extended yeast lees contact adds weight and richness to the palate. Cellaring potential – drinks well now and will mature gracefully over several years.

Ratings +

Reviews

2024 Nutcracker Sauvignon Blanc

4.5 Stars, Michael Cooper MW
Bright, light lemon/green, it is mouthfilling, with strong, ripe, peach, pineapple and lime flavours,
showing considerable complexity, and a tightly structured, crisp finish, dry and sustained.  Still 
unfolding, it should be at its best mid-2025+.

2021 Nutcracker Sauvignon Blanc

Real Review, Bob Campbell MW (#3 of 102 tasted) 
Intense, flavoursome sauvignon blanc with gooseberry, capsicum, lemongrass and subtle struck-flint 
and savoury characters supported by ripe acidity. A delicious wine with pleasing purity.

98pts Winestate Magazine, Michael Cooper MW
Certified organic, this youthful Wairau Valley wine was hand-picked, fermented with indigenous 
yeasts and partly barrel-fermented.  Weighty, sweet-fruited and dry, it has concentrated, ripe, 
tropical fruit flavours, balanced acidity, and excellent vigour, complexity, and depth.

GOLD 2022 Aotearoa Organic Wine Awards

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Vintage 2024

Nutcracker Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Walnut Block

Tasting Notes

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