Kahu, Maori for native harrier hawk, inspired the name of the Hensley family’s neighbouring vineyard and the luscious dessert wine made from there. This Riesling block is harvested late in the season when morning dew is heavy, encouraging the spread of botrytis. The dry autumn of 2019 meant we could hang the fruit on the vine till into May. Picked in three passes, the shrivelled bunches were in perfect condition.
Intense aromas of marmalade, ginger, orange blossom and white flesh nectarine meld together on the nose. Supple and smooth as it flows across the palate, the flavours are floral and bright, with fresh honey suckle and citrus blossom. The 2019 Kahu has 150 grams of residual sugar, but remains very elegant and vibrant. Aged cheese and walnut cake would be excellent accompaniments to this gorgeous Riesling.