ESSES ESSENTIAL BRUT CUVÉE NV

Esses Estate is the located with pristine surrounds of Kaikoura Seaward ranges, with stunning views across the peninsula and along Kaikoura coastline. 20-year-old vines over 1.5ha are the passion of Aaron and Mel Skinner.

Mel and Aaron are passionate sparkling lovers, and having searched the world, found a gorgeous little plot of vines located in the magnificent foothills of Kaikoura. Esses is the only vineyard near Kaikoura township and specialises solely in Méthode Traditionnelle.

Winery notes (NV)
"Essential was harvested on the first day of NZ lock down 2020, It has stunning floral aromas of elderflower and honeysuckle with gorgeous hints of lime. Touches of autolysis coming through with nuances of cheesecake base biscuit crumb. It is fresh with lemon zest and dances on the palate. Beautiful crisp acidity with minerality and salinity making a perfect selection with oysters and caviar.

This non-vintage Essential is made of 87% Chardonnay and 13% Pinot Noir, spent 35 months on lees. The wine is elegant with a sense of purity, focused acid tension drives a lasting finish filled with pastry and creamy details. Aromas of apple, pear, nectarine, apricot tart and nougat."

David Walker Bell, WineFolio.co.nz, August 2024 (NV)
"The Essential NV Brut Cuvée was harvested on the first day of Covid-19 lockdowns in 2020. A cream biscuit notes in the aroma alongside elderflower, lemon peel, toffee and ginger. A calm and focussed expression, quite light and clean through the palate. The bubble has a fine mousse and creaminess, which balances well with the crisp acidity."