Being a long time fan of Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, when I saw
the 2013 small parcels single vineyard “Spitfire” I couldn’t resist. Though I have to admit, I did pause a minute
to think about the purchase. At almost
double the price of what I know and love from them, I wondered could they make
it better, would it justify the price?
From the Marlborough region of New Zealand, the name Spitfire, is likely a nod to the World War II aircraft
of the same name and the grapes for this wine were grown on what was formerly
an air force training base.
The color, was a beautiful straw yellow. On the nose, it was more complex than what I'm used to with peach, tropical fruit and spice, a more
prevalent minerality, less grapefruit and subtle grassy notes.
On the palate, it seemed sturdier - a bit reigned in. This
however is not a bad thing. The structure was noticeable and worth a few extra
dollars by itself. I loved how the wine evolved. The complexity was on the palate as
well. In addition to minerality and
citrus notes, there was an herbal or almost green bell pepper note – like when the
growing season has been dry and green pepper wants to be hot, but not as hot as
a jalapeno or Serrano, just hot for a green bell pepper - a hint of that was
most enjoyable.
If you enjoy Kim Crawford, I’d invite you to A/B these two
wines. It was great fun and yes,
justified the price. It’s not to say this has replaced the other for me, it’s
not necessarily better, just a different experience that I’m anxious to repeat.
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