2024 Stoney Rise Savagnin

Another year where I continue to be intrigued about this variety and the options that it offers. The fruit is trodden in bins on arrival and left for 3 days to soak on skins. It’s then pressed to old 5ool puncheons, with a small percentage fermented in tank which includes a 20% addition of whole bunches. Stirred twice a day like our Chardonnay, and left to its own devices until it is bottled in August. No malo.

There the distinct sea spray character of this variety on the nose, but there is some ginger and Alpine herbs. The palate has grapefruit and golden delicious apple, with some nuttiness from the oxidation and the 10% addition of a portion fermented on skins. Its rich and ripe, but the natural acidity and the briney character of the variety give the finish length and power.

A wonderful Aussie expression of the Jura native Savagnin, but in a modern, clean style. Playing on lifted acidity, texture and Savagnin’s saline and mineral edge, Joe’s rendition is expressive and precise. Nashi pear, and kiwi fruit aromas, with a salty and saline mouthfeel. There’s structure and excitement about it. – Joe & Lou Holyman