Share

Sommeliers Choice Awards 2023 Winners

Putting the focus back on Australian Sauvignon Blanc

For almost eight years, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc has dominated the Australian white wine market

18/01/2017

For Burch Family Wines, this means adjusting the production techniques used on their Margaret River and Great Southern vineyards.

Natalie Burch, Operations Manager and Director for Howard Park Wines, says that the key to creating a worthy opponent to our rival across the Tasman isn’t in imitation, but distinction.

“[NZ Sauvignon Blanc has] been very successful, but it’s not something Australia could replicate because we aren’t New Zealand,” said Burch. “So producers, like ourselves, who have Sauvignon Blanc planted have looked at how to differentiate ourselves and make the wines more interesting to drink.”

The aim for Burch Family Wines is to create a drink that hits the mark in its own right and is known for its exceptional quality and food friendliness. In this attempt to contrast the much-loved New Zealand varietal, they have carefully applied innovative techniques to their winemaking process.

“The main difference is oak,” explained Burch. “We tend to do a little barrel fermentation in French oak or extended lees/skin contact. It softens the fruit acidity of the wine a little and adds more richness and complexity.”

Read more at source: Food & Beverage 

More news