Growing Conditions

100% Waipara, North Canterbury grapes.

Aotearoa (New Zealand) summers have plenty of heat and sunshine, but it’s at nightfall when the magic really happens. When the sun dips below the horizon and takes its warm kiss away from our islands, the temperatures quickly drop and we are reminded of our secluded geographical location in the Southern Ocean. It is this unique geographic positioning that gives us one of the longest grape growing seasons on earth which is so special to the creation of our wines. Cold night time temperatures help to capture the elegant acidity and the unmistakable zesty flavours and fragrances that are the hallmark of our wines.

Our vineyards are living organisms that we share with our workers, animals, insects and neighbours. We strive to keep our impact low and our whānau (family) safe. Our focus is on ensuring that we put more back into the land than what we take. We are farmers at heart, nurturing the elements that make our grapes unique so we can bring you Tiki Wines, our taonga (treasure) of Aotearoa (New Zealand).

The Tiki whānau (family) is an indigenous New Zealand wine producer committed to sustainable winegrowing with an uncompromising commitment to quality. We care for our vines under the guiding Māori principles of Kaitiakitanga: the guardianship, protection and preservation of the earth for future generations. Founder Royce McKean’s family has been living and farming in Aotearoa (New Zealand) for hundreds of years.

Harvest

The fruit was harvested at maximum flavour as assessed through frequent tasting in the vineyard by the winemaker. We picked across the vineyard at different times and degrees of ripeness to allow the individual cuvees a range of site expression.

Winemaking

Extended skin contact time was used prior to crushing to enhance extraction of the aromatic compounds. The fruit was then very gently pressed to avoid harsh phenolic extraction and the juice allowed to cold settle. The clear juice was fermented at low temperatures using a range of yeast renowned for their ability to enhance the Sauvignon Blanc aromas. A balanced amount of residual sugar was left in the wine to complement the acidity and to add palate weight and structure.

Nose

A complex nose reflecting tropical notes.

Palate

The palate highlights classic varietal notes of capsicum and lemongrass. A wine with a lovely balanced finish, range of flavour and length.

Appearance

A delicate, pale green/gold.