Sato L'Atypique Pinot Gris 2021

Sato is a boutique winery located in Central Otago, New Zealand, and is run by husband-and-wife team Yoshiaki and Kyoko Sato. The Satos are known for their natural, minimal-intervention approach to winemaking, focusing on producing wines that authentically reflect the unique terroir of the region. Their wines are highly regarded for their purity, elegance, and sense of place. The 2021 Sato L'Atypique Pinot Gris is a fascinating example of their unconventional style, blending old-world techniques with the vibrant fruit and character of New Zealand grapes.

The Central Otago region is renowned for its extreme climate, with hot summers and cold winters, as well as its diverse soils, which range from schist to gravelly loam. These factors contribute to the intensity and structure of the wines produced here. The Sato L'Atypique Pinot Gris 2021 is made with minimal intervention, including the use of wild yeast fermentation and extended skin contact, which gives it a unique character and texture. The wine is unfined and unfiltered, which allows it to retain maximum expression of its terroir.

Appearance: A striking copper or pale amber hue, the result of extended skin contact, giving the wine a slightly cloudy appearance due to its unfiltered nature.

Aroma: On the nose, it opens with layers of orchard fruits like ripe pears and apricots, followed by subtle notes of orange peel, ginger, and a hint of wild herbs. There is also a delicate floral aroma, reminiscent of jasmine and honeysuckle, adding an extra layer of complexity.

Taste: The palate is textured and slightly tannic, thanks to the skin contact, but balanced by refreshing acidity. Flavours of quince, baked apple, and ripe stone fruits are interwoven with zesty citrus and a touch of spice, such as cardamom and ginger. There is a pleasing mineral edge, providing depth and structure to the wine.

Finish: The finish is long, with lingering notes of dried apricot, orange zest, and a faint herbal bitterness that adds a savoury, refreshing twist to the wine’s vibrant fruit character.

Food Pairing: Sato L'Atypique Pinot Gris 2021 pairs beautifully with dishes that have complex flavours and textures. A great match would be a Moroccan-style lamb tagine, where the wine’s acidity and tannic structure complement the richness of the lamb, while its fruity and spicy notes harmonise with the dish’s dried fruits and warm spices. Another excellent pairing would be a roasted pumpkin and goat's cheese salad, where the wine’s minerality and citrus elements enhance the earthy sweetness of the pumpkin and the tanginess of the cheese, creating a balanced and vibrant pairing.