The 2008 growing season was noteworthy for its extremes. The

2008 spring was cold and crisp, followed by a summer with warmer than average temperatures.  Some well timed rain brought our yields slightly up on historic averages, but still below industry norms. The resulting wines are vibrant with an array of flavours you should expect from quality Marlborough wines.

This Vavasour Pinot Gris was hand harvested from our own Awatere Valley vineyard during the cool of an autumn morning.  After whole bunch pressing the grapes, the juice was split.  15% was carefully fermented in older French oak barriques using wild yeasts from the vineyard and stirred on lees regularly. The remaining portion was fermented in stainless steel, with a selected yeast strain, allowing us to retain those vibrant fruit flavours found in the vineyard.  As a result of this fermentation technique this wine has a lovely mix of fresh flavours, a rich palate and added complexity.

This wine is made in a dry style and shows subtle pear and jasmine notes on the nose.  The richly structured palate exhibits luscious layers of fruit, with hints of pear and ginger, followed by a long mineral finish. This wine would prove an excellent partner to a wide range of foods and could be enjoyed now or over the next 5 to 6 years.

The 2008 Vavasour Pinot Gris is sealed with screw cap to ensure optimum quality.