The Shout Magazine (New Zealand)

Early ripening grapes capture Stoneleigh’s lighter side

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Stoneleigh winemaker, Jamie Marfell

Stoneleigh winemaker, Jamie Marfell

New Zealand wine brand Stoneleigh has drawn on the wonders of nature within its Rapaura vineyards to create three new wines that are naturally lighter in alcohol but still bursting with the vibrant flavours and aromas expected from a Stoneleigh wine. The new Stoneleigh Lighter range includes a Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris and Rosé, which have been crafted to be 25% lower in alcohol* than the classic Stoneleigh wines of the same varietal and vintage.

“The lifted aromatics and vibrant flavours of our Stoneleigh wines are what set them apart. We wanted to capture these signature characteristics in a wine that is naturally lighter in alcohol, but does not compromise on taste or quality,” says Stoneleigh winemaker, Jamie Marfell.

The sunstones within the Stoneleigh vineyards, combined with the high sunshine hours and low rainfall, allow grapes to develop their full flavour while their sugar content is relatively low. These grapes can then be crafted into a naturally lower alcohol wine that still captures the distinctive flavours of the Rapaura sub-region.

The Stoneleigh Lighter range taps into a growing trend among consumers who want the benefits of a lower alcohol wine without compromising on taste.

Stoneleigh Lighter will be launched in New Zealand in August and will be available from leading liquor retailers nationwide (RRP $17.29).