Description
Greywacke (pronounced ‘grey-wacky’) is the name given to the grey sedimentary rock that characterises much of the soil in this estate’s vineyard. The winery was founded in 2009, and is the brainchild of Kevin Judd, former winemaker of Cloudy Bay for 25 years. The Greywacke portfolio is primarily based on two varieties, sauvignon blanc and pinot noir, the sauvignon blanc being produced in two distinctly different styles. In addition to this core range of three wines, there are also limited edition releases of chardonnay, and three aromatic varieties – pinot gris, riesling and gewruztraminer.
Technical info
Fruit was sourced from several prime vineyard sites in Marlborough’s Southern
Valleys and the central Wairau Plains (specifically Woodbourne, Renwick and Rapaura).
Harvested largely by machine during cool (often cold) night-time conditions,
the fruit was picked at high sugar levels over a 3-week period, commencing 24 March.
Fruit was lightly pressed to yield a modest volume of high-quality juice. The juice was cold-settled and racked prior to
fermentation, which was primarily carried out in stainless steel tanks with cultured yeast. All individual vineyard batches were left on lees until late May, when the blend was assembled.
Tasting Notes
“While not the most aromatic of its vintage, the 2025 Sauvignon Blanc is succulent, elegant and balanced. Subtle elderflower, talcum powder and snow pea join ripe citrus in this satisfying, finely textured expression.”
[89/100 – Rebecca Gibbs – February 2026 – www.vinous.com]
