Saint Clair Estate was founded in 1978 by Neal and Judy Ibbotson. This winery is still owned by them today. The winery stands for consistent quality. Every year, Saint Clair wins a string of medals, and the winemaker regularly receives awards. In 2005 and more recently in 2010, Saint Clair was named the best New Zealand winery. Saint Clair is quite well-known in the Netherlands, and they are proud of that. Saint Clair specializes in producing top-quality Sauvignon Blanc. Saint Clair owns over 270 hectares of vineyards in Marlborough on the South Island and in Hawke's Bay on the North Island.
The Pinot Noir grapes come from a vineyard in the heart of the Omaka Valley. The grapes are carefully monitored throughout the ripening process and harvested in the cool of the evening. After harvesting, the grapes are cold-soaked for five days to maximize flavor and color. During fermentation, every effort is made to increase concentration. The skins that float to the surface are immersed eight times a day. Finally, the wine is aged for 10 months. During aging, the wine is tasted regularly to ensure the right balance is achieved.
The aroma is rich with hints of cherries, plums, a touch of spice, and ripe blackberry notes. The taste is truly beautiful, complex and creamy in texture. Beautiful recurring flavor impressions of black fruit, light spices, and a touch of oak. A truly beautiful wine!
