Notes - Cloudy Bay Vineyards was established in 1985 by Cape Mentelle Vineyards in Western Australia. The company farms 200 hectares of vines at three carefully selected sites. Vineyards planted in 1986 surround the winery in the Wairau Valley at Rapaura, with additional plantings at nearby Renwick and in the Brancott & Omaka Valley's, in the southern foothills. Five long term contract growers also work closely with Cloudy Bay. The main varieties grown are sauvignon blanc, chardonnay and pinot noir with lesser quantities of riesling and gewurztraminer. The winery takes its name from the bay at the eastern extremity of the Wairau Valley. It was named Cloudy Bay by Captain Cook on his voyage to New Zealand in 1770. Generosity is the defining word for the 2009 Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc. Its aromatics encapsulate a broad spectrum of varietal flavours; tropical fragrances of guava and mango to ripe lime/ citrus and sweet herbs. The palate also is juicy and voluminous, combining concentrated flavours with a mineral acidity that leaves a long, fresh, intense finish.