Clericus Wild Sauvignon Blanc 2022

Clericus is the Roman origin of Clark and is associated with Roman Scholars. Clark Estate reserves only their finest wines to carry the name Clericus. These are wines made with love and passion. They tell a story of our land, our vines and our dedication to making great wine. A powerful and concentrated wine that is packed with ripe stone fruit flavours and layered with exotic tropical aromas created by the use of wild yeast and selective use of oak. A beautifully balanced wine with exquisite finesse and harmony. Enjoy this wine now or over the next 5-10 years.

As the Roman Empire spread, so did the evolution of viticulture around Europe. Vineyards were created in the best locations and wines were made using only the basic ingredients. The Clericus wines are crafted with the same philosophy of using grapes from the most premium sites and using only nature to ferment the wines. Each wine is made to represent both the sense of place and also the origin of the grape itself. Only once the wine is in perfect balance will it be bottled and left to age slightly before being released.

The Upper Awatere is known for its rugged soils, unforgiving climate and stunning Sauvignon Blanc flavours. Strong winds, scorching daytime temperatures, and cool clear nights contribute to the development of the amazing flavours found in Sauvignon Blanc grapes.

Planted in 1998, the Sauvignon Blanc vines whihc produce this wine are now some of the oldest in Marlborough. The old gnarly vines have built up good carbohydrate reserves that aid in the ripening process. The roots have grown much deeper and are now finding older soils to source the nutrients the vines need.

Individual rows are chosen by hand and each parcel of fruit is carefully selected and kept separate throughout the winemaking process to preserve the unique flavours. Indigenous fermentations and time on lees allow subtle earthy flavours and a lovely texture to develop. The wines are rich and complex with a perfect amount of oak used in every wine to compliment the style.