2005 Butchers Block White

2005 Butchers Block is a blend of Marsanne (50%) and Viognier (50%), produced from fruit grown in the Stonewell vineyard. 

Marsanne is a premium variety originating from the Northern Rhone Valley in France, where it is the dominant white grape variety used in making the great white wines of Hermitage. Viognier also has it’s origins in the Northern Rhone, where it is used to make rich and aromatic white wines in Condrieu, or to soften  and add complexity to the Syrah wines of Cote Rotie. 

The 2005 Vintage was generally mild.  Good moisture levels in soil from steady winter and spring rains maintained the health of vines, ensuring good canopies which protected fruit from sunburn.  Early concerns of   dilution due to larger berry size did not eventuate and a long slow ripening period with little rain allowed fruit to reach full ripeness with low risk of disease. 

This blend offers a complex nose of lime, fresh apricots, candied pineapple and citrus peel with lifted aromas of orange blossom and acacia flowers with nutmeg and toasted barrel nuances. Flavours of ripe white stone fruits, citrus and grapefruit are enhanced from partial barrel fermentation in new French oak hogsheads. Extended lees contact has further contributed to the mouth-feel and structure of this wine.