An Approach to Relaxation 'Nichon' Semillon, Barossa Valley, Australia

Discover the 2017 An Approach to Relaxation 'Nichon', a unique white blend from the Barossa Valley's Vine Vale, crafted by the passionate winemaking duo, Richard and Carla Rza Betts. This wine reflects their unconventional journey from bustling city life to winemaking in Australia, showcasing their commitment to producing distinctive and expressive wines.

Wine Details:

• Variety: 90% Semillon, 10% Sauvignon Blanc
• Region: Barossa Valley, South Australia
• Type: White Wine
• Alcohol: 14.5%

Sensory Description:

The 2017 'Nichon' is crafted from old vines, with the Semillon bringing a robust structure and the Sauvignon Blanc adding vibrant citrus notes. This wine undergoes a meticulous basket press over a slow 12-hour cycle, enhancing the extraction of aromatic and structural components from the skins. It is then barrel-fermented in French oak for about 20 days, longer than typical fermentations, and aged in oak for a year. The result is a layered wine with delicate floral aromas, lemon curd, honeyed notes from the Semillon, and a hint of pink grapefruit courtesy of the Sauvignon Blanc. It offers a complex palate that promises to evolve beautifully with age.

Winemaker's Background:

Richard and Carla Rza Betts, two Americans based in Amsterdam, are drawn to the world of winemaking by their adventurous spirits and a deep passion for quality wine. Their path to winemaking has been anything but conventional, with careers that spanned various continents and industries before settling down to focus on their own vineyard in South Australia. They are known for their playful yet serious approach to wine, emphasizing natural processes and minimal intervention to let the unique characteristics of their vineyard shine through.

Serving Suggestions:

The 2017 'Nichon' is an excellent companion to a variety of dishes. Its robust profile pairs beautifully with rich seafood dishes, creamy pastas, and white meats. The wine's complex flavor profile also makes it a fantastic match for Asian cuisine, offering a balance to spicy and savory flavors. Serve chilled to enhance its refreshing qualities and complex aromatics.

This wine not only encapsulates the adventurous spirit of its makers but also represents a fine example of what the Barossa Valley can produce under the stewardship of passionate winemakers who respect and celebrate their terroir.