Australia is bonkers. We've never been there, so we're not even fully convinced it isn't a fictional land. Look at kangaroos. WTF is up with those? And all the spiders? No. Anyway, this pretend place makes some real awesome wine. Mate.
2016 Talbingo Hill Sauvignon Blanc, South Eastern Australia
Tucked away in the hills of New South Wales, Australia resides the town of Talbingo. The surrounding land is some of the most fertile in Australia, growing strong vines in a distinct style. For this Sauvignon Blanc, grapes come from 10-15 year old vines that flourish in alluvial red medium clay soil. Clay soils retain water, keep vines cool, and produce bold, flavorful wine. In vintage 2016, this was particularly important for the Sauvignon Blanc vines, as temperatures were warmer and drier than average. However, 2016 is regarded as one of the top vintages in Australia, with winemaker's celebrating exceptional quality. In February, Sauvignon Blanc parcels were harvested. To preserve pure fruit expressions, the grapes were chilled and clarified, inhibiting wild yeast fermentation. Fermentation in inert vessels also helped to preserve the aromatic characteristics of Sauvignon Blanc. No oak was used during fermentation or aging.
Tropical notes along with lime mingle in the bouquet. On the palate, more lime along with passion fruit, crisp acidity, and a zesty finish make for a delightful Sauvignon Blanc.
Founder and CEO, Bruce Cunningham, has been in the wine industry since 1987. After earning an undergraduate degree in Wine Marketing Studies at the University of Adelaide (South Australia), Bruce attended business school and has been involved in many aspects of the industry with a specific focus in packaging and production. After relocating to New York from Australia, he saw the need for custom labels of Australian wines for direct marketing needs in the USA. A W Direct (formerly Aussie Wine Direct), was born. This focus on a market segment was, at the time embryonic, and quickly led to further expansion of both suppliers and various segments of the wine market.
A W Direct relocated to California in 2004, and the team expanded, led by the formidable talents of his business partner, Kimberly Cunningham. Kim - an engineer, and techno-geek at heart - with her experience in running divisions of some of the world’s largest companies, was able to build systems to help create the efficiency needed to allow A W Direct to grow, but also compete in a wine world that can be inflexible and intolerant. As the company grew, Kim enhanced the business by developing a successful team of energetic, challenge-driven people who have the right “moxie” to keep our well-oiled machine running smoothly.
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