Configuration: (6 x 750mL)

Winery: Sato

Appellation: Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand

Philosophy/Practices: Organic, biodynamic

Grape Variety: 100% riesling

ABV: 12.6%

White oolong tea, dried chamomile, cold apricot & peach, crabapple, freshly fallen autumn leaves. Bone dry with fine, firm tannins and an extra-long finish.

Why we love it: Yoshiaki & Kyoko Sato craft one of the most beautiful iterations of Riesling that I came across during my time living in New Zealand. Here in Canada, we’re almost completely cut off from the gorgeous white wines made in this region, which is world-famous for (and so, dominated by) its Pinot Noir. Rightfully so, but we think that the white wines made here deserve to have their own moment. Riesling in particular shines in Central Otago, where the climate is perfectly suited to the variety. The L’atypique Riesling is even more special because of its elongated maceration on the skins… this is gorgeous, poised orange wine.

The 2022 Sato Riesling is made with grapes from two vineyards: Domaine Road Vineyard, which is in organic conversion in Bannockburn; and Red Shed Vineyard in Bendigo.