Uncovering the Legacy of Allan Scott Family Winemakers

In the heart of Marlborough, New Zealand, lies Allan Scott Family Winemakers, a pioneering winery that has been instrumental in shaping the region's reputation for producing world-class Sauvignon Blanc. Established in 1990 as one of the first independent wineries in Marlborough, Allan Scott has consistently crafted wines that embody the essence of this remarkable terroir.

The Journey of a Winemaking Pioneer

The story of Allan Scott Family Winemakers is one of passion, dedication, and innovation. It begins with Allan Scott, a visionary with nearly 40 years of experience in the wine industry. Allan's journey started in 1973 when he and his wife Catherine, a fifth-generation Marlburian, settled in the region. As a viticulturist and winemaker, Allan played a crucial role in establishing some of Marlborough's most famous vineyards, including the very first one.

Throughout his career, Allan worked with renowned wine companies such as Montana and Corbans, where he held key positions overseeing vineyard management and winemaking. This extensive experience laid the foundation for Allan and Catherine's decision to establish their own winery in 1990, becoming part of the first wave of independent winemakers in Marlborough.

The Art of Winemaking: A Symphony of Terroir and Technique

At Allan Scott Family Winemakers, the art of winemaking is a harmonious fusion of terroir and technique. The winery's vineyard team works hand in hand with the winemakers to ensure that only the finest grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness and flavor. The grapes are sourced from the winery's own meticulously tended vineyards, each with its unique character and terroir.

The Moorlands Vineyard, established in 1980, is particularly noteworthy as it was the first vineyard in the region to be planted on grafted rootstock. This vineyard, along with the Wallops, Hounds, and Omaka vineyards, contributes to the distinctive flavor profiles found in Allan Scott wines. The diverse soil compositions, ranging from old riverbed and silt to clay loam and gravelly, free-draining soils, impart unique characteristics to the grapes grown in each site.

In the winery, Allan Scott's winemaking team employs a combination of traditional and modern techniques to craft wines that authentically express the essence of Marlborough. From gentle pressing and cool fermentations to extended lees aging and judicious use of oak, every step of the process is carefully managed to preserve the purity of fruit and enhance the complexity of the final wine.

Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc: A Symphony of Flavors

Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc has earned a global reputation for its vibrant flavors, crisp acidity, and aromatic intensity. Allan Scott Family Winemakers is at the forefront of producing some of the region's most exceptional examples of this iconic wine style.

The winery's Estate Range Sauvignon Blanc showcases the quintessential characteristics of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. Sourced from selected vineyard sites, this wine offers a harmonious blend of tropical fruit notes, herbaceous undertones, and zesty acidity. It is a true representation of the region's unique terroir and the skill of Allan Scott's winemaking team.

For a more refined expression, the Black Label Sauvignon Blanc takes things to the next level. Hand-selected grapes from the winery's premier vineyard sites are used to craft this premium wine. Extended lees aging and partial oak fermentation contribute to its enhanced complexity, texture, and depth, without overwhelming the varietal purity. The result is a Sauvignon Blanc that combines the best of Marlborough's iconic style with the finesse and elegance of meticulous winemaking.

Exploring the Depths of the Black Label Range

While Allan Scott Family Winemakers is renowned for their Sauvignon Blanc, the Black Label range showcases the winery's expertise across a variety of wine styles. These premium wines are crafted from the finest estate-grown grapes, hand-selected by the Chief Winemaker to ensure exceptional quality and character.

The Black Label Pinot Noir is a true reflection of Marlborough's potential for producing world-class Pinot Noir. Grapes from the Hounds and Omaka vineyards are carefully harvested, de-stemmed, and fermented with indigenous yeasts. The wine is then aged in French Oak puncheons for up to 14 months, resulting in a Pinot Noir of remarkable depth, complexity, and finesse. Silky tannins, lush fruit flavors, and subtle earthy undertones make this a wine that will captivate the senses.

For lovers of Chardonnay, the Black Label Chardonnay is a must-try. Grapes from the Wallops and Moorlands vineyards are whole-bunch pressed and barrel fermented in French Oak puncheons. Extended lees aging and regular stirring contribute to the wine's creamy texture and rich, toasty flavors. A harmonious balance of ripe stone fruit, citrus, and subtle oak make this Chardonnay a standout expression of Marlborough's cool-climate viticulture.

A Sustainable Legacy for Generations to Come

At Allan Scott Family Winemakers, the commitment to quality extends beyond the wine itself. The winery is dedicated to sustainable viticultural practices, ensuring that the land is preserved for generations to come. From the use of organic fertilizers and cover crops to the implementation of efficient irrigation systems, every effort is made to minimize the environmental impact of the winery's operations.

This sustainable approach is not only better for the land but also contributes to the quality and character of the wines. By nurturing the vines in a way that respects the natural environment, Allan Scott Family Winemakers can produce grapes that are true expressions of their terroir, resulting in wines of exceptional purity and authenticity.

An Invitation to Discover

Whether you are a seasoned Sauvignon Blanc enthusiast or a curious wine lover eager to explore the rich tapestry of New Zealand wines, Allan Scott Family Winemakers invites you on a journey of discovery. From the vibrant and aromatic Estate Range to the profound and sophisticated Black Label wines, each bottle tells a story of passion, innovation, and the unique terroir of Marlborough.

Experience the legacy of Allan Scott Family Winemakers for yourself and discover why this pioneering winery has become synonymous with the very best of Marlborough winemaking. With a commitment to quality, sustainability, and the pursuit of winemaking excellence, Allan Scott Family Winemakers continues to shape the future of New Zealand wine, one vintage at a time.