Abstract Three Rows 2023

Located in the Marlborough wine region, at the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island, Blank Canvas winery benefits from a cool, sunny climate, tempered by the maritime influence of the Cook Strait. The plots selected for the Abstract Three Rows cuvée are situated on alluvial soils composed of gravels and silts, offering excellent drainage and good aromatic concentration. The alternation of warm days and cool nights promotes slow grape ripening, preserving the natural acidity and fruit purity in this white wine.

The grapes are hand-harvested from three distinct rows of the vineyard, then gently pressed as whole clusters. The juice is gravity-fed into French oak barrels, where slow fermentation with indigenous yeasts takes place. Part of the aging is carried out on fine lees, with measured bâtonnage to preserve tension and aromatic purity. Aging continues in barrels before a meticulous blending process, aiming to express the unique plot characteristics and crystalline texture of this New Zealand white.

This wine reveals notes of ripe citrus, stone fruit, and tropical fruit, complemented by delicate floral touches, subtle spicy nuances, and a slight mineral character brought by the gravelly soils. The palate presents a full and silky texture, supported by a lively acidity that prolongs the tasting, while the long and precise finish reveals a beautiful tension and a fine salinity that invite you to another glass.

Introduced in 1819, viticulture was greatly developed by Jean-Baptiste Pompallier, a French Marist missionary. Sent to Oceania in 1837, he settled there in January 1838 to develop New Zealand's vineyards. The first quality vineyards were established in the Hawke's Bay region during the 19th and early 20th centuries. After production setbacks initially caused by phylloxera and then the First World War, the vineyards began to expand again during the Second World War, doubling in size. Today, New Zealand has 10 major wine regions spread across the North and South Islands, the largest of which is Marlborough. Most of New Zealand's wine regions have a maritime climate. The country's long, narrow shape means that vineyards are never more than 120 km from the coast, and most are even much closer (with the exception of the semi-continental region of Central Otago). A mountain spine running through the center of the country protects most of the major wine regions from the strong westerly winds from the Tasman Sea known as the "Roaring Forties." Because of these winds, there are few wine regions on New Zealand's west coast. The quality and reputation of New Zealand wines are well established. Indeed, the country produces some of the best and most renowned Sauvignon Blanc in the world. And it's no coincidence that New Zealand has managed to make Sauvignon Blanc its symbol, alongside its sheep, kiwifruit, and the legendary haka!