Thorne Daughters Snakes Ladders Sauvignon Blanc
A rich white wine with herbal tea, green melon, and flinty notes, balanced by vibrant acidity
Thorne & Daughters `Snakes & Ladders` Sauvignon Blanc from Skurfberg, South Africa, is a captivating dry white (blanc) still wine. Crafted from Sauvignon Blanc grapes, it undergoes whole bunch pressing and fermentation with natural yeasts in used French oak barrels, then aged on its lees for 10 months, contributing to its rich texture. This wine displays subtle herbal tea notes, green melon, and a flinty, earthy smokiness on the nose, leading to a bold palate with citrus peel, ripe fig, and jasmine flavours, balanced by vibrant acidity. It is a versatile choice, pairing beautifully with poultry, lean fish, or goat cheese. This wine is also suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
75.0CL , 14.0% ABV , Vintage: 2022
Vinification
Upon arrival at the winery, the Sauvignon Blanc grapes were whole bunch pressed in an old Vaslin press. This ensured an oxidative and very gentle pressing - yielding a very clear juice. The juice was left to settle overnight and was then racked into used 225 and 600-litre French oak barrels for fermentation with natural yeasts. After fermentation, the wine underwent spontaneous malolactic fermentation and was aged in barrel on its lees for around 10 months. No sulphur additions were made until early winter, once the wine had had time to settle.
Flavour profile
This unusual Sauvignon Blanc displays subtle herbal tea notes, green melon, and a flinty, earthy smokiness. The palate is bold and rich, with vibrant acidity tempered by its texture, revealing flavours of citrus peel, ripe fig, and jasmine.
Serving recommendation
Serve chilled at 12-14°C. A short decant may enhance its rich texture and complex aromas.