2011 The Noble Botryotinia Fuckeliana Sauvignon Blanc
Adelaide Hills 87% McLaren Vale 13%
The Story Behind The Name
Botryotinia fuckeliana is a plant pathogen and the causal agent of the more widely known Botrytis cinerea, which affects grape vines. Botrytis cinerea is affectionately known as ‘noble rot’ because it’s responsible for making beautiful dessert wines. It weakens the skin of grapes allowing the water inside to evaporate. This leaves behind sugar and nutrients which results in very sweet wines with concentrated flavours. Paradoxically to the lewd sounding name, Botryotinia fuckeliana is an asexual spore, named after German botanist, Karl Wilhelm Gottlieb Fuckel.
The Characteristics
A racy nose to start, citrus blossom, fresh grass and marmalade mix with tropical fruits and ripe, sweet passion-fruit. It’s an heady mix of complexity and decadence.
The palate offers a spicy, zesty entry with the texture of lemon curd, all velvety and smooth with citrusy acid keeping it all in line. Layers of flavor keep on coming; includ-ing spicy orange cake, minerals and herbs.
This wine is long, fine and direct and its acidity; spice tinged and mineral edged keeps you coming back for more. Although delicious now, this wine will reward the patient if cellared well over the next five to ten years.