Sam and Mandy Weaver planted their vines on an undulating ridge line between the Waihopai and Omaka valleys in in 1997. This was (and remains) the height of idiosyncracy in Marlborough, where most vines are planted on the fertile soils of the valley floor, allowing for full mechanisation. At Churton, everything is done by hand, on low cut canes. This European style is reflected in the wine.

Sam and Mandy’s sons, Jack and Ben, are increasingly involved in the estate, and they are taking the wines in a new direction, using natural wine techniques; indigenous yeasts, less fining and filtration, and fewer sulphites.

Making its UK debut, this wine is exclusive to Substrata in the UK, and it’s a memorable expression of Sauvignon Blanc.

The fermentation of this wine began in the vineyard, where Jack and Ben made a ‘pied de cuve’, by crushing Sauvignon grapes and allowing the fermentation to begin with the natural ambient yeasts from the vineyard.

More palate weight and with a softer acidity profile than many Marlborough Sauvignons, this has distinctive and intense aromas of mango snd honeysuckle. It’s divine drink by itself, but would be a good companion to spicy dishes with coconut and chilli, white meats, creamy and smoked cheeses.

2020; cork; 13% abv