About this wine
Rippon Sauvignon Blanc is a distinctive expression of Central Otago terroir, specifically from the shores of Lake Wanaka. Unlike the typical high-acid, tropical styles of Marlborough, this wine is defined by its structural elegance, flinty minerality, and subtle smoky undertones. The grapes are grown in schist-heavy soils, which impart a unique tension and complexity. On the palate, it offers refined citrus notes, green herbs, and a persistent, savory finish that reflects the cool-climate viticulture of the region.
This is not your typical fruity Sauvignon Blanc; it is a sophisticated, mineral-driven wine that showcases the true potential of New Zealand's cool-climate viticulture.
Sommelier's Note
"This is a masterpiece of New Zealand viticulture. You must experience its unique schist-driven minerality at least once; it is undeniably one of the most profound Sauvignon Blancs in the world."
Food Pairings
Pairs exceptionally well with fresh oysters, goat cheese, grilled asparagus, and delicate white fish. Its mineral backbone also makes it a perfect match for Japanese cuisine, particularly sashimi or tempura.
When to drink it
Ideal for an elegant dinner party, a sophisticated seafood pairing, or as a contemplative glass for those who appreciate terroir-driven wines.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Style
- White
- Price Range
- ¥6,000-8,500
Terroir & Winemaking
Grown on ancient schist-gravel soils on the shores of Lake Wanaka. Farmed biodynamically, hand-harvested, and wild-fermented partially in neutral oak barrels with the balance in stainless steel. Aged on primary lees for approximately three months; bottled unfined, unfiltered, and unsulfured with no additions or adjustments to the must.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does it taste like?
- It tastes of flinty minerality, citrus zest, and subtle smoky herbs with a long, savory finish.
- What food should I pair it with?
- It pairs best with fresh seafood, goat cheese, and Japanese dishes like sashimi or tempura.
- When is the best time to drink it?
- It is best enjoyed within 3 to 5 years of the vintage to appreciate its vibrant freshness.
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Talk to the SommelierMore wines from this producer
リポン マチュア・ヴァイン ピノ・ノワール
Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir
RedPinot Noir
Rippon Mature Vine Pinot Noir is the definitive expression of the estate's iconic north-facing escarpment overlooking Lake Wānaka. Sourced from fully developed, biodynamically farmed vines planted on schist-based soils, this wine captures the unique 'farm voice' of the property. It is characterized by its purity, elegance, and mineral-driven structure, offering nuanced layers of wild strawberry, red cherry, and forest floor, supported by fine, silky tannins and vibrant acidity. Unfined and unfiltered, it is a compelling, site-specific wine that balances intensity with remarkable finesse.
リッポン マチュア・ヴァイン リースリング
Rippon Mature Vine Riesling
WhiteRiesling
Rippon Mature Vine Riesling is an iconic expression of Central Otago terroir, sourced from some of the oldest vines in the region. Located on the shores of Lake Wanaka, the Rippon vineyard benefits from a unique microclimate that allows for slow ripening and exceptional flavor development. This wine is characterized by its intense mineral backbone, vibrant acidity, and complex layers of citrus, green apple, and subtle floral notes. It is a dry, structured, and age-worthy Riesling that perfectly captures the purity and energy of the Wanaka landscape.
リッポン ティンカーズ・フィールド マチュア・ヴァイン ピノ・ノワール
Rippon Tinker's Field Mature Vine Pinot Noir
RedPinot Noir
Rippon's Tinker's Field is a legendary single-vineyard Pinot Noir from Central Otago, New Zealand. Planted between 1986 and 1989, these mature vines benefit from the unique schist soils and the moderating influence of Lake Wanaka. The wine is renowned for its exceptional purity, structural elegance, and profound sense of place. It displays complex layers of dark cherry, wild herbs, and earthy undertones, supported by fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity. This is a benchmark wine that captures the essence of the Rippon estate's biodynamic philosophy and the rugged beauty of the Wanaka landscape.
リッポン エマズ・ブロック マチュア・ヴァイン ピノ・ノワール
Rippon Emma's Block Mature Vine Pinot Noir
RedPinot Noir
Emma's Block is a unique, east-facing parcel within the iconic Rippon vineyard in Central Otago, overlooking Lake Wānaka. Planted in 1991 on soils featuring ancient clay reefs and fine schist gravels, this single-vineyard Pinot Noir is celebrated for its precision, elegance, and mineral-driven complexity. The wine is biodynamically farmed and crafted with minimal intervention, often utilizing whole-cluster fermentation and native yeasts. It offers a sophisticated profile of red berries, cherry blossom, dried herbs, and graphite, supported by silky, fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity. It is a benchmark of New Zealand Pinot Noir, known for its ethereal texture and profound sense of place.
リッポン ゲヴュルツトラミネール
Rippon Gewürztraminer
WhiteGewürztraminer
Rippon Gewürztraminer is a benchmark expression from Central Otago, New Zealand. Sourced from the estate's mature vines on the shores of Lake Wanaka, this wine is celebrated for its aromatic intensity and structural elegance. It displays classic notes of rose petals, lychee, and exotic spices, balanced by a vibrant acidity that is characteristic of the cool-climate terroir. Unlike many sweeter international styles, Rippon's version is typically crafted with a dry finish, emphasizing purity, texture, and a profound sense of place. It is a sophisticated, terroir-driven wine that evolves beautifully in the glass.
リッポン オスタイナー
Rippon Osteiner
WhiteOsteiner
Rippon Osteiner is an exceptionally rare white wine produced by the iconic Rippon vineyard in Central Otago, New Zealand. Osteiner, a crossing of Riesling and Sylvaner, finds a unique expression in the cool, schist-rich soils of Wanaka. This wine is characterized by its aromatic complexity, offering vibrant notes of stone fruit, citrus zest, and a distinct mineral backbone. With limited production, it represents a fascinating exploration of viticultural diversity in one of the world's southernmost wine regions, showcasing purity, tension, and remarkable aging potential.