Cedalion, Waiheke Island, New Zealand
Sam Harrop is a New Zealand Master of Wine, wine maker, international wine consultant, and author who has lived and worked abroad for many years.
Well-known for challenging conventions in the making and selling of wine internationally, in 2013 Sam returned to New Zealand with a challenge in mind: to make world-class chardonnay from an untested site on Waiheke Island, New Zealand – a region not renowned for chardonnay. The results spoke for themselves.
Following the success of this project, Cedalion has grown into a small, export-focused operation centered on single vineyards – predominantly Chardonnay and Syrah – with a focus on site expression and sympathetic winemaking.
Cedalion wines embody the values of their maker: Subtlety, singularity, and longevity. Wines are made from single vineyards chosen for their uniqueness and ability to produce a premium example of the varietal. They are a true reflection of the site in any given year.
All wines adhere to Sam’s winemaking philosophy: Hand harvesting at optimum ripeness, meticulous sorting and sympathetic intervention in the winemaking process.
Cedalion was the name of the servant in Greek Mythology who stood on the shoulders of blinded Orion to guide him to the East. The name reflects Sam’s huge respect for the many wine ‘giants’ who have contributed to his knowledge and experience along the way, as well as his own intention to do the same through his educating, writing and speaking endeavors.
Winemaker: Sam Harrop MW
'Block 31' Syrah 2014
A one hectare, southwest facing plot at the eastern end of Waiheke Island, Block 31 is steeply terraced and planted with two different clones (Chave and Hermitage). The 14 year-old vineyard has highly mineralised clay soils that promote good acidity and tannin structure. The vineyard soil and cool aspect ensures that the resulting wines will keep their freshness and varietal qualities for years to come.
Blueberries and raspberries dominate at this early stage. Flinty aromas keep the bouquet tight, but hint at the promise of longevity. A touch of white pepper and background cedar spice offer more complexity. The palate has silky texture with lovely acidity that provides freshness and balance. Only a small amount of new oak was used to balance the site’s primary qualities.
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