Craggy Range Te Muna Road Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Wildly urbane would better describe this wild white than truly wild as many a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc tends to be. Like many genuinely created wines, this one is an accurate reflection of the visionaries behind it, as well as the place it comes from.

Craggy Range is named for the small mountains in view of the Giants Winery facility, the impressive winemaking studio and gallery built to showcase the best of the Gimblett Gravels region in Hawkes Bay New Zealand. The venture known as Craggy Range is only about 10 years old, started by businessman Terry Peabody and his wife Mary-Jeanne and acclaimed Master of Wine Steve Smith. They have spent enormous sums to see their vision of a world class winery take shape, and it shows.

The Te Muna Road Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc blocks are located in a recently created gravel plateau (in the floods of 1876) which was almost given over to quarry duty. But to the astute winegrowers' eye it turned out to be perfect for its newfound purpose. Ti Muna translates to "secret place".

Adrian Baker is credited with making this wine, working under Rod Easthope who focuses more on the Bordeaux reds.

Tasting Notes: Appearance: Very pale straw. Aromas: Candied lime, green apple, and hints of honeyed apricot, quince and flint. Zesty light, sweet and tart, then dry and clean, the lime, grapefruit, downplayed passionfruit and amply minerally notes play into an electric minimalist finish.

Excellent value ($18). Closure: Screw cap. Alcohol content: 13%

Alder Yarrow of Wine Blog Vinography visited Craggy Range in January 2007 and his review is good reading as well as a good planning tool for a visit.

Comments

[Chris]

Do you know where I can buy Craggy Range Sauvignon Blanc 2005 vintage in the Houston, Tx. area or anywhere else for that matter? If not can you make any other recommendation for a wine of this quality and taste?
Thanks for your assistance.... Chris

[Gucci]

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