Misty Cove Wines, Marlborough (New Zealand) Sauvignon Gris 2020

 No, that’s not a typo.  Sauvignon Gris is rare in New Zealand but is scattered around Bordeaux, primarily in Entre Deux Mers.  It usually plays a minor role but has potential to be bottled on its own.  A decade ago Chilean vintner Cousino-Macul introduced its Sauvignon Gris that impressed and today bottles one under the “Isadora” designation.  In Bordeaux I’ve also enjoyed a few recent vintages of a 100% Sauvignon Gris from Château Le Coin.  Misty Cove treats the grape gently with a cold fermentation and 3 months of less aging.  The wine is assertive with green apple and fennel, floral aromatics.  On the palate it delivers similar fresh apple, pear flavors but with more silky texture and weight than one finds in Kiwi Sauvignon Blanc.  It finishes with moderate acidity, but in a lengthy, balanced way.