Passel Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2022

Fermented in stainless steel and new French oak barrels (20%). Combined after fermentation with maturation on fine lees, fortnightly bâttonage  for 5 months. Gooseberry, lime zest and pip, lime blossom, lemon pith, and some lovely leesy mealiness open on the nose. There’s also wet stone slipperiness, fresh minerality, a very subtle base note of cheesecloth, and a light dusting of warm nutmeg spice.  The palate follows through with zippy citrus tones, kaffir lime, white musk and crushed oatcakes. There’s no shortage of bright and zesty acidity, but it refrains from stealing the limelight thanks to well-handled solids. A Sauvignon Blanc that proudly waves its varietal flag with lovely energy but has a few years of maturity in bottle and so it keeps the conversation balanced. Plenty of manners here, in a variety that can be wildly outspoken.