Metis Sauvignon Blanc 2016
Domaine Pascal Jolivet
Summary: In 2012, winemaker Matt Day joined Pascal Jolivet and former winemaker Jean-Luc Soty for their harvest where he learned that their manner of making Sauvignon Blanc was completely opposite and unconventional to what he had been taught. In 2013, Jean-Luc joined Matt in South Africa for harvest, igniting the idea to experiment with one of the highest blocks in the vineyard to make a wine the “Pascal Jolivet” way.
Metis Sauvignon Blanc was inspired by Pascal Jolivet and his holistic approach to winemaking in Sancerre. Using a unique and minimalistic approach to winemaking, we were able to make a wine that shows the true expression of the Constantia terroir. The name Metis refers to the collaboration between the two countries to produce this great wine. This fusion of philosophies is reflected in the flower on the label that is a hybrid of the South African Protea and French Iris.
Terroir: We have identified the best blocks from a selection of the higher vineyards on the farm. These blocks provide grapes with a high acidity and low PH, able to withstand the way in which the wine is made. To capture the identity of each site we have introduced a combination of organic and biodynamic farming practices. In addition to this, we have blended two organically farmed vineyards into the final Metis blend.
Vinification: In the cellar, our philosophy remains the same – adopting a ‘minimal intervention’ approach to winemaking. No yeast was added, allowing for a natural cool fermentation with little sulphur added before bottling. Valentina Buoso, the current winemaker at Pascal Jolivet, annually comes to Klein Constantia to work with Matt to put together the final blend. Both young and dynamic, the pair are in constant pursuit to produce a natural expression of the Klein Constantia terroir.
Grapes were harvested by hand. The wine underwent a long, cool fermentation and was left to mature on its fine lees for 12 months in stainless steel tanks. This allows the wine to age beautifully!
Additional Information
Bright and light in appearance with fresh citrus aromas. The wine has a round and expressive palate, full and grippy with a zesty acidity. It finishes with a long burst of mineral and lime flavors.
Technical Details
- Appellation: South Africa
- Sustainability: Organic Practices, Biodynamic Practices
- Primary Soil: Limestone, Clay
- Alcohol: <14%
- Varietals: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Recent Press
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Score: 90 Points
Wine Spectator Online Author: James Molesworth
Date: Friday, June 29, 2018"This is very enticing, with a kiss of brioche carrying white peach, yellow apple and lemon curd flavors along. Shows a light verbena echo through the stylish finish." -
Score: 92 Points
JamesSuckling.com Author: James Suckling
Date: Friday, August 4, 2017"Grassy but not overly herbaceous and in check with delicious thyme and sage. Full and flavorful body that shows precision and refinement as well as depth. Screw cap. Drink now and enjoy! A joint venture wine with the famous Loire producer of Pascal Jolivet." -
Score: 92 Points
The Wine Advocate Author: Neal Martin
Date: Friday, April 28, 2017"It has an attractive bouquet: gooseberry, Granny Smith, a suggestion of wild mint and fennel. The palate is well balanced with more weight and volume than the Sauvignon Blanc, notes of gooseberry, kiwi fruit and a touch of lemon zest, fanning out in satisfying fashion on the finish." -
Score: 94 Points
Tim Atkin MW Author: Tim Atkins
Date: Saturday, September 10, 2016"Inspired by the time Matt Day has spent with Pascal Jolivet in the Loire Valley, this is a lightly wooded, naturally fermented Sauvignon Blanc that’s made with minimal sulphur dioxide. Savoury, wild and leesy, it has lovely freshness and complexity and a saline, Sancerre-like tang."
