Cloudy Bay, one of New Zealand’s most recognizable superior wine farms, continues to extend the envelope with the release of its new Sauvignon Blancs. Cloudy Bay introduces two different Sauvignon Blanc expressions. Each bottle represent a living tale of its terroir and unshakable dedication, to carry on the tradition of unflinching quality.
This year’s portfolio includes two distinct vintage expressions. The Sauvignon Blanc 2023 and Te Koko 2021, both of which exhibit fresh and fruity overtones while accurately preserving the distinctive flavor of New Zealand’s region.
Good food paired with fine wine is always a winning combination.
According to Cloudy Bay’s Technical Director Jim White, the company’s unwavering commitment to quality is the driving force behind their wines. The competence and unyielding passion of the winemaking crew, from the vineyards to the last stages of producing each bottle, are on full display in these latest expressions, as can be seen in the wines’ individual characters.
The Marketing Director of Mot Hennessy Singapore & Malaysia, Nausicaa Charrier, is quite enthusiastic about bringing the 2023 vintage of Cloudy Bay to Singapore. Charrier says this is a big deal for Cloudy Bay’s future as part of the Mot Hennessy family in the region, and Mot Hennessy Singapore & Malaysia are confident that local wine connoisseurs will appreciate Cloudy Bay’s dedication to excellence.
A Natural and Artistic Element Present in the 2023 Sauvignon Blanc Vintage
Lower yields and looser bunches were the result of difficulties early in the season, but the moderate and reasonably humid weather that followed, along with consistent rainfall and careful vineyard management, proved fortuitous. Grapes were grown to perfection thanks to the long summer days and subsequent chilly nights, giving for the luxury of waiting until the proper time to harvest.
Meticulously bottled to perfection. The 2023 Sauvignon Blanc Vintage.
Cloudy Bay’s Sauvignon Blanc 2023 captures the spirit of New Zealand’s winemaking heritage despite the ever-changing aspects of nature, personnel, tastes, and technology by continuing the winery’s record of quality from the vineyards to the meticulous winemaking.
Bob Campbell, NZ Master of Wine and who rated the Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2023 a Gold rating of 95 points, describes the insides of the new bottle as “crisp, uncompromisingly dry sauvignon blanc with intense, vibrant wine that lives up to its exalted reputation.”
Inviting aromas of juicy honeydew melon, passionfruit, citrus, and a trace of fresh blackcurrant leaf characterize this expression. It has a strong and refined taste, with flavors of ripe fruit and the sea air providing a refreshing counterpoint. Complex and refreshing flavor notes are achieved through the integration of subtle tropical fruit notes with makrut lime, lemongrass, Meyer lemon, and a hint of grapefruit skin.
Te Koko 2021: Synchronizing Cloudy Bay and Mother Nature
The juice was fermented slowly and steadily with indigenous yeasts after gentle pressing and 24 hours of settling in French oak barrels (8% new) and big size wooden cuves. Under the meticulous supervision of Cloudy Bay’s winemaking staff, the main fermentation continued for four to five months, achieving further complexity in that time. After 11 months of aging on the fine lees in oak barrels, the wine was finally mixed. The winemakers decided to use stainless steel, concrete tanks, and large format wooden cuves to complete the aging process in a less oxidative manner.
Dishing a taste of nature in a bottle. The Te Koko 2021.
Te Koko has a delicate balance thanks to its distinctive texture and acid character, both of which are the product of careful cellar aging.
Te Koko 2021 carries on the tradition of excellence established by Cloudy Bay. Widely regarded as the first wine of its kind to be fermented in oak barrels. The fact that it continues to improve with age is a testament to Cloudy Bay’s dedication to producing wines of exceptional quality.
The nose of the Te Koko 2021 is initially closed, but it opens up to reveal hints of honey and graphite along with mild tropical notes. Peach, preserved citrus, and roasted nuts make up the intricate layers of flavor on the mouth. The rich berry center is tempered by a bright line of acidity and a salty minerality that leaves the tongue clean and refreshed.
Sauvignon Blanc 2023 will be available at Cold Storage and retails for $52. Te Koko 2021 will be available at The Oaks Cellars and retails for $104.
