2020 Mount Mary Vineyard Triolet

The Triolet blend, first produced at Mount Mary in 1987, was inspired by the white wines of Graves, Bordeaux. The vineyard is planted to 75% Sauvignon Blanc, 20% Semillon and 5% Muscadelle. Each variety is picked at optimum ripeness, and is fermented separately. The characteristics of optimum ripeness are different for each variety. We pick the Sauvignon blanc after the strong herbaceous flavours have disappeared, the Semillon when the acid is not too harsh, and the Muscadelle when the flavour intensity peaks. In the winery we use mostly older barrels for this wine, with the entire production being barrel fermented. Relatively hard pressing is employed to give the wine texture and lees stirring is carried out to add complexity and body. The Triolet is typically barrel aged for 11 months by which time the overt fruity flavours have diminished, and complex aromas are beginning to develop.