Each year we invite Sauvignon Blanc aficionados to join me in a tasting of the new vintage Sauvignon Blancs before they are blended to become the estate’s much-loved.

La Motte Sauvignon Blanc. This year, lockdown prevented a public tasting of the unique flavour contributions each area makes to this popular wine, but I am very satisfied with the ultimate blend and excited to introduce the 2020 La Motte Sauvignon Blanc.

Summer was moderate and while volumes in the Cape South Coast area were lower, our overall volume was up from 2019. Harvesting took place at between 17 and 23 degrees Balling to capture natural acids and produce fuller, riper flavours. The process was reductive, with cold fermentation (14 °C) after which the wine was left on the lees and blended with 8% of Semillon to enhance complexity. I hope you will enjoy the natural freshness of this wine as well as the beautiful nuances of the 2020 season. 

We didn’t know it when we started the project, but in hindsight, with all that has happened this year, it seems apt that we are also introducing a fresh new look for the La Motte Sauvignon Blanc. We are excited about the modern interpretation of our elegant label and hope you like it too!

2020 La Motte Sauvignon Blanc

Light straw in colour with a hint of green, the 2020 La Motte Sauvignon Blanc offers abundant flavours of winter melon and gooseberry with intricate lime aromas, distinctive of La Motte Sauvignon Blanc. While acidity is less this year, it is beautifully balanced with the lower residual sugars. The palate is silky and smooth and the aftertaste fresh, but lingering.

Food Pairing

Beautifully balanced, the 2020 La Motte Sauvignon Blanc is refreshing as a glass on its own, but with ample body to be a delightful partner to salads, pastas and seafood. Try Chef Eric Bulpitt’s delicious hake parcels with buttery potatoes and a green bean and mint salad with a glass of the new vintage – it’s a feast!