Nautilus Estate Cuvée Marlborough Brut NV 750ml

Nautilus Estate Cuvée Marlborough Brut NV is a traditional-method sparkling wine from Nautilus Estate in Marlborough, made from 75% Pinot Noir and 25% Chardonnay. It spends three years on its lees before disgorgement and sits at 12% ABV.

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Nautilus is based at Renwick in the Wairau Valley, and this Cuvée is its take on a classic non-vintage sparkling in the Champagne mould. Like Champagne, the second fermentation happens in the bottle, and the wine is then left to rest on the spent yeast for a full three years. That long lees time, well over the minimum for non-vintage Champagne, is what gives it a creamy texture and the biscuity, toasty flavours Nautilus highlights. Pinot Noir leads the blend for body and red-apple fruit, while Chardonnay adds citrus freshness. Residual sugar is 7 g/l, so it drinks as a classic dry Brut.

In the glass, expect a pale straw colour, fine bubbles and a soft, creamy mousse, with nutty, bready notes over crisp citrus and apple. If you usually drink young, fruity New Zealand bubbles, this is a step towards a more savoury, Champagne-like style.

Serve at 6 to 8°C in a flute or tulip glass. Nautilus suggests kingfish with watermelon, chilli and lime, and smoked fish works well too. Closer to home, try it with fresh oysters, fish and chips, or a platter of crackers and aged cheddar.