Old Coach Road Nelson Gewürztraminer 2017

Wine Analysis

Vineyard: Seifried Brightwater and Redwood Valley Vineyards
Sugar at Harvest: 21.5° Brix
Date of Harvest: Late March 2017
pH of Wine: 3.65
T.A of Wine: 5.5g/L
Residual Sugar of Wine: 15g/L
Suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans: Yes

The Vineyards

The 2017 Old Coach Road Gewürztraminer is a blend of our two vineyard sites growing Gewürztraminer. Our Brightwater vineyard is situated 15 km from the coast and is sheltered from the south by the Richmond ranges. The ‘soil’ is a combination of rocks and boulders, which is very hard on the farm equipment but vital for holding the warmth of Nelson’s sun and for ripening grapes.

The unirrigated Redwood Valley vineyard is situated on a gently sloping, north facing clay site; the vines range in age from 10 to 30 years. Vertical shoot positioning helps to expose the berries to sunlight, thus getting maximum intensity and optimal ripeness.

Winemakers Note

Gewürztraminer is an early ripening variety with an aromatic, fragrant bouquet. It is naturally a low yielding vine which can produce wonderful concentration and flavour.  After harvest the grapes were de-stemmed and left for a period of skin contact before pressing. The clear juice was inoculated with a pure yeast strain and then a cool, temperature-controlled fermentation began.  The fermentation was stopped prematurely to allow slight residual sweetness in the wine.  Post ferment the wine spent a brief period on light lees, before being stabilised and bottled in July 2017.

Tasting Note

Our 2017 Old Coach Road Nelson Gewürztraminer has characteristic varietal intensity. The nose is clean and floral with hints of rose-petals and Turkish delight. The wine has lychee flavours and a full, rich palate which leaves a long finish.

"Pungent, floral, spicy and varietal with aromas and flavours of white peach, apple, pears, rose, pineapple and lychee flower. A light ginger note adding complexity. Plenty of acidity and medium weight, some gentle residual sweetness and creamy texture. A very enjoyable example – drink now and through 2020."

89 Points - Cameron Douglas MS, November 2017