The 2023 Sato La Ferme de Sato Schisteux Chenin Blanc is an estate-grown Central Otago white from Sato’s Pisa vineyard, planted on alluvial sandy and silty loam with abundant schist and quartz gravel. The nose is expressive with ripe pear, apricot and citrus alongside floral notes, gentle spice and subtle mineral complexity.
On the palate, it is concentrated and textural with bright acidity and a creamy yet focused feel. The hand-picked fruit was basket pressed, naturally fermented and matured for 15 months in French and Austrian oak barrels, with 19% new oak, before bottling without fining or filtration.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an excellent choice for Chenin Blanc drinkers who enjoy textured, mineral-driven whites with ripe fruit, fresh acidity and restrained oak. Enjoy now or cellar for further development. Ideal with roast chicken, grilled fish, scallops, pork, mushroom dishes or semi-hard cheeses.