Zonte’s Footsteps Excalibur Sauvignon Blanc 2022

First up, love the labels. Wonderfully evocative. The names of the wines are sometimes from beyond left field but always good fun. And best of all, these guys make excellent wines which represent real value. Arguments are already in full swing as to whether or not 2022 will exceed its predecessor in the Adelaide Hills, but either way, we have two brilliant vintages. Take advantage.

Who doesn’t love the legends surrounding Arthur, Camelot and Excalibur? The story – of the wine, not King Arthur – suggests that the name for the wine came from the inspiration of the “first rapier-like cut of this Sauvignon Blanc”. This is enhanced by the rather liberal use of the famous Guy de Maupassant quote, “… the wine of kings, the king of wine”, although unfortunately this was actually about Champagne and not Savvy. No matter. Fruit hails from vineyards in the Woodside sub-region of the Adelaide Hills, after which it is de-stemmed and crushed into stainless steel tanks. Free run juice is chilled to 5°C before fermentation.

The wine is gin clear, fresh and bright, and it really is compelling evidence of what a great vintage the region enjoyed. Slightly leafy, lemony and with notes of fresh limes. Florals and tropical notes lingering gently underneath. A fine line of acidity leading to a lengthy and always fresh finish with good balance. This is a classic Savvy and even haters of that variety would be hard pressed not to enjoy this wine, especially if served with a plate of fresh seafood. Drink now for 2 to 3 years.

Ken Gargett

Contributor at Winepilot

Ken was born and bred in Brisbane, Queensland. He had a non-trendy, perfectly happy childhood, in a family convinced alcohol meant instant condemnation to Hades. But a break fishing on the Great Barrier Reef, and some good wine, started a serious obsession that eventually took over. It did not stop Ken being chastised later for drinking Pol champagne, disgusted he’d drink anything made by a Cambodian dictator. Now, Ken mostly writes on wine, champagne and spirits for various newspapers, magazines and books, but is perhaps best known for his work in The Courier Mail. He also has a little sideline writing on cigars, fishing, travel and food. When not writing, fly-fishing for trout in NZ or bonefish on the flats of Cuba, travelling or smoking cigars, he is no doubt following a variety of sporting teams – the occasionally glorious Queensland Reds rugby, the dysfunctional Washington Redskins, the dodgy Arsenal and especially revels in the world restored to its proper axis with the return of the Ashes to their rightful home.

Wine writer and critic