Variety: Sauvignon Blanc

Region: Yarra Valley

Tasting Notes: This wine is what Sauvignon Blanc is all about, with gooseberry, lime citrus and just snapped baby pea pods predominating on the nose. The palate carries this tangy mixture of flavours and has a wonderful crisp finish.

Background Information: Killara Estate is based in Seville, on the Warburton Highway. The Palazzo family own and operate the property, with the wines being made under contract, by Michael Kyberg of Red Hill Estate.
In 1987 the family bought the Killara Estate, right on the banks of the Yarra River and, at 1200 acres, one of the largest private holdings in the valley and one with plenty of history.
In the late 19th century the estate was owned by David Mitchell, father of the famous diva Dame Nellie Melba, and from 1883 by the legendary David Syme, of The Age newspaper fame. Syme made many improvements to the property and helped pioneer European-style irrigation systems in the Yarra Valley. He planted 80 acres of orchards and his apples fetched top prices in London.
The Palazzos continued using the Killara Estate for grazing Angus cattle but in the mid-1990s it was time to fulfil Tony’s viticultural ambitions by planting Pinot Noir (72 acres), Chardonnay (20 acres), Merlot (20 acres), Shiraz (12 acres) and Cabernet (10 acres). More recently, the vineyards have been expanded by about four acres each of Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier and Pinot Grigio, taking the total area to just under 150 acres.
In James Halliday’s 2008 Wine Companion the property was given a 4 ½ star rating and this is what James wrote about the Killara Estate Yarra Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2006.
A clean fusion of herb, green pea and tropical fruit; good balance and length, not too sweet.
RATING: 89 TO: 2008 PRICE: $17

Vintage: 2006

State: Victoria

Country: Australia

Alcohol Content: 13.5%

Standard Drinks: 8.0

Preservatives: 220

Bottle Top: Screwcap

Bottle Size: 750ml

Red/White Wine: White